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What Can You Hunt in Morocco? Complete List of Game Animals
Morocco is one of North Africa’s most diverse hunting destinations, offering a rugged mix of mountains, forests, plains, and semi-arid zones. For hunters seeking authentic experiences and challenging game, Morocco delivers. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the animals hunted in Morocco, their habitats, population status, and seasonal availability—written for serious hunters, not tourists.
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🐗 Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
• Status: Widespread and abundant
• Habitat: Forests, agricultural zones, cork oak groves
• Hunting Season: October to February
• Notes: The only large game species legally hunted in Morocco. Wild boar populations are stable and even considered overabundant in some regions, particularly in the Rif and Middle Atlas. Driven hunts are common, often organized with dogs and beaters.
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🐏 Barbary Sheep (Aoudad – Ammotragus lervia)
• Status: Limited and regulated
• Habitat: Tafoughalt Mountains, Béni-Snassen range, rocky slopes
• Hunting Season: Select areas, typically October to March
• Notes: A prized trophy species with impressive horns. Populations are fragmented and managed under conservation programs. Hunts are physically demanding and require stalking in mountainous terrain. Trophy rams can weigh up to 130 kg, with horn lengths reaching 30–35 inches.
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🐇 European Hare (Lepus europaeus)
• Status: Declining in some regions
• Habitat: Agricultural plains, scrublands, light forests
• Hunting Season: October to February
• Notes: Hares are hunted with pointing dogs or during driven hunts. Populations are thinning in intensively farmed areas but remain viable in the Middle Atlas and River Camp zones B.
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🐦 Barbary Partridge (Alectoris barbara)
• Status: Stable and widespread
• Habitat: Hills, vineyards, olive groves, semi-arid zones
• Hunting Season: October to December
• Notes: Morocco’s signature upland bird. Fast flyers, often hunted with dogs. The Gambra subspecies is especially sought after. Populations are strong in Tadla, Benslimane, and Azilal.
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🐦 Quail (Coturnix coturnix)
• Status: Migratory, seasonal influx
• Habitat: Grain fields, grasslands
• Hunting Season: July to September
• Notes: Quail arrive in Morocco during migration and are hunted with dogs. Numbers vary annually depending on rainfall and crop cycles.
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🐦 Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola)
• Status: Migratory, limited window
• Habitat: Dense forests, riverbanks
• Hunting Season: October to March
• Notes: Elusive and nocturnal. Woodcock hunting is considered a privilege, especially in River Camp areas. Requires skilled dogs and patience.
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🐦 Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur)
• Status: Declining across North Africa
• Habitat: Farmlands, orchards, open woodlands
• Hunting Season: July to September
• Notes: Popular among wing shooters. Due to population pressures, Morocco reduced the daily bag limit from 50 to 40 birds starting in 2024.
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🐦 Pigeon (Columba palumbus & Columba livia)
• Status: Abundant
• Habitat: Urban edges, cliffs, forests
• Hunting Season: October to February
• Notes: Common wood pigeons and feral pigeons are hunted in large numbers. Often used for dog training and casual shooting.
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🐦 Duck (Anas platyrhynchos and others)
• Status: Migratory, seasonal
• Habitat: Wetlands, lakes, rivers
• Hunting Season: October to February
• Notes: Mallards dominate the duck hunting scene. Numbers fluctuate with water levels. Hunting is done from blinds or during morning/evening flights.
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🐦 Double-Spurred Francolin (Pternistis bicalcaratus ayesha)
• Status: Critically endangered (Moroccan subspecies)
• Habitat: Maamoura Forest, Central Plateau, Souss-Massa National Park
• Hunting Season: Not open to general hunting
• Notes: Reintroduction efforts are underway. This bird is not legally hunted but is worth mentioning due to its historical significance and conservation status.
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🐒 Barbary Macaque (Macaca sylvanus)
• Status: Protected, not huntable
• Habitat: Middle Atlas cedar forests
• Notes: Though not a game species, illegal hunting and habitat loss have reduced populations by 65% over the last 30 years. Estimated 5,000 remain in the wild.
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📍 Top Hunting Regions in Morocco
• Middle Atlas: Wild boar, hare, Barbary partridge
• Tafoughalt Mountains: Barbary sheep
• River Camp (Benslimane, Meknes, Azrou): Woodcock, duck, hare, partridge
• Souss-Massa National Park: Francolin reintroduction, bird hunting
• Tadla Plains: Dove, quail, pigeon
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🗓️ General Hunting Season Overview (2025)
• Big Game (Wild Boar, Barbary Sheep): October – February
• Upland Birds (Partridge, Hare, Woodcock): October – March
• Migratory Birds (Quail, Dove, Duck): July – September
• Hunting Days: Friday to Monday only
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🧾 Permits & Regulations
• All hunting rights belong to the Moroccan state.
• Hunters must obtain a hunting license, weapon permit, and insurance certificate.
• Hunting is prohibited in permanent and temporary reserves.
• Trapping is illegal; only shooting and falconry are permitted.
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🧭 Conclusion
Morocco’s hunting scene is rich, varied, and challenging. From driven wild boar hunts in dense forests to stalking Barbary sheep in the mountains, the country offers something for every hunter. Populations of key species like wild boar and partridge remain strong, while others like francolin and macaque require protection. With proper planning, permits, and respect for local conditions, Morocco delivers a rewarding hunting experience in one of Africa’s most scenic landscapes.
Morocco Hunting Laws 2025: What Foreign Hunters Must Know
Morocco offers rugged terrain, diverse game species, and a hunting culture rooted in tradition. But before you pack your rifle or book a trip, understanding the country’s licensing system and legal framework is essential. This guide strips away the fluff and delivers verified, field-ready information for hunters planning a trip to Morocco.
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📋 Who Regulates Hunting in Morocco
All hunting rights belong to the Moroccan State, managed by the Agence Nationale des Eaux et Forêts (National Agency for Water and Forests). They oversee:
• Hunting seasons and quotas
• Licensing and permits
• Wildlife conservation and protected zones
Hunting is permitted only in designated zones or on private land with permission. Trapping is illegal. Shooting, falconry, and hunting with dogs are allowed.
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🗓️ Hunting Seasons by Species (2025)
• Wild Boar: October – February
• Barbary Sheep (Aoudad): October – February (limited zones)
• Partridge, Hare, Woodcock: October – March
• Migratory Birds (Quail, Dove, Duck): July – September
• Hunting Days: Friday to Monday only
Always confirm exact dates with local authorities or your outfitter. Seasons may shift based on wildlife surveys.
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🦌 Game Species & Bag Limits
• Wild Boar: Abundant; generous bag limits due to crop damage
• Barbary Sheep: Trophy species; strict quotas and special permits required
• Red-legged Partridge: Common; bag limits vary by region
• European Hare: Widespread; regulated to prevent overhunting
• Waterfowl (Mallard, Snipe): Migratory; hunted in wetlands with enforced limits
• Quail & Turtle Dove: Seasonal influx; bag limits adjusted annually
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🔫 Permitted Weapons & Hunting Methods
Allowed Methods:
• Driven Hunts: Common for wild boar
• Stalking: Used for Barbary sheep in mountainous terrain
• Walk-up Bird Hunting: With pointing dogs
Weapons:
• Shotguns: 12 or 20 gauge for birds
• Rifles: Bolt-action preferred; magnum calibers for sheep
• Bows: Legal with restrictions on draw weight and arrow type
• Semi-Automatics: Often restricted; check magazine capacity rules
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🧾 Licenses & Permits You’ll Need
1. Moroccan Hunting License• Required for all hunters
• Foreigners must present a valid license from their home country
2. Species-Specific Permit• Issued per hunt zone and species
• Includes dates, location, and quotas
3. Firearm Import Permit• Issued by the Directorate General of National Security
• Declare weapon at customs on arrival
• Only smooth-barreled hunting weapons allowed
• Provide: passport, rifle details, proof of ownership
4. Insurance Certificate• Mandatory for all hunters
• Often arranged by local outfitter or club
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🚫 Key Regulations to Know
• Hunting Hours: Sunrise to sunset
• Protected Areas: National parks and reserves are off-limits
• Vehicle Use: Off-road restrictions apply in some zones
• Alcohol: Consumption during hunts discouraged; respect local customs
• Documentation: Carry copies of all permits at all times
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📍 Best Local Hunting Zones
• Middle Atlas (Azrou, Ifrane): Wild boar, partridge, hare
• Béni-Snassen Mountains: Barbary sheep (limited access)
• Tadla Plains: Dove, quail, hare
• Taroudant Region: Wild boar battues
• River Camp Zones (Benslimane, Meknes): Woodcock, duck, partridge
These areas are managed by local clubs and private concessions, not international outfitters.
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💰 Costs to Expect
• Daily Rates: €200–€500 depending on species and service
• Trophy Fees:• Barbary Sheep: €3,000–€6,000+
• Wild Boar: €200–€500
• Licensing & Permits: €100–€300
• Firearm Import Fees: Varies; expect delays
• Travel & Lodging: Flights, hotels, local transport
• Taxidermy & Export: Additional fees for trophy prep and shipping
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🧭 Final Word for Hunters
Morocco isn’t a plug-and-play hunting destination. It’s a country with real game, real terrain, and real rules. If you’re serious about hunting wild boar or chasing Barbary sheep across rocky ridges, get your paperwork in order, work with a local outfitter, and respect the land.
Best Hunting Regions in Morocco 2025: Rif Mountains, Sahara Desert, Game Species, Seasons & Permits
Morocco offers over 150,000 hectares of exclusive hunting territory across mountains, deserts, forests, and wetlands. From driven boar hunts in the Rif to migratory bird shooting in the Sahara, the country delivers real field action for serious hunters. This guide covers the top hunting zones, species, seasons, terrain, and legal access for 2025.
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📍 Rif Mountains: Boar & Barbary Sheep in Dense Forests
Located in northern Morocco, the Rif Mountains are known for steep cliffs, thick oak forests, and cooler weather. This region is ideal for:
• Wild Boar: Found in dense cover, hunted via driven battues with dogs.
• Barbary Sheep (Aoudad): Present in rocky ridges and remote valleys.
• Method: Driven hunts for boar; spot-and-stalk for sheep.
• Season: October 1 – March 31
• Access: Tangier or Tetouan airport + 2–3 hour drive
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📍 Sahara Desert: Migratory Bird Hunting in Open Terrain
While known for its arid landscape, the Moroccan Sahara offers excellent bird hunting during migration:
• Species: Turtle dove, quail, sandgrouse, and waterfowl
• Method: Decoying and pass shooting near oases and dry riverbeds
• Best Time: July–September (dove), October–January (waterfowl)
• Gear: Lightweight camo, hydration packs, sun protection
• Access: Ouarzazate or Errachidia airport
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📋 Legal Requirements for Hunting in Morocco
• License (Non-Resident): ~1,500 MAD (~€140) for 7 days
• Firearm Import Permit: Required; apply 30+ days in advance
• Battue Authorization: Mandatory for driven boar hunts
• Insurance: Must cover hunting and emergency evacuation
• CITES Export: Required for trophies like aoudad horns
• Protected Species: Dorcas gazelle, mouflon, wood pigeon — hunting prohibited
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🧠 Tactical Tips for Rif & Sahara Hunts
• Use satellite maps to scout terrain before arrival
• Practice shooting from standing and kneeling positions
• Train cardio for elevation and long walks
• Hunt early morning and late afternoon for best movement
• Bring backup optics batteries and extra ammo — local resupply is limited
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❓ FAQ – Hunting Regions in Morocco 2025
1. What are the best hunting regions in Morocco?
Rif Mountains, Sahara Desert, High Atlas, Souss Valley, Béni-Snassen.
2. What species can I hunt in the Rif Mountains?
Wild boar, Barbary sheep, hare, partridge.
3. What species can I hunt in the Sahara Desert?
Turtle dove, quail, sandgrouse, ducks.
4. Do I need a hunting license?
Yes — issued by the Water & Forests Administration.
5. Can I bring my own firearm?
Yes — with a valid import permit.
6. Are rental guns available?
Yes — most outfitters offer rifles and shotguns.
7. What’s the cost of a hunting license?
~€140 for non-residents.
8. What’s the best airport for Rif hunts?
Tangier or Tetouan.
9. What’s the best airport for Sahara hunts?
Ouarzazate or Errachidia.
10. Are driven hunts available in the Rif?
Yes — for wild boar.
11. What’s the average shot distance for boar?
20–60 meters.
12. What’s the average shot distance for birds in the Sahara?
25–40 meters.
13. Can I hunt solo?
Yes for stalking; driven hunts require a group.
14. Are dogs provided?
Yes — trained dogs are included in most packages.
15. What’s the best time to hunt turtle dove?
Late July to early September.
16. What’s the best time to hunt waterfowl?
October to January.
17. Can I combine species in one trip?
Yes — many outfitters offer combo hunts.
18. Are there restrictions on ammo?
No lead bans for upland or big game.
19. Is travel insurance required?
Yes — must cover hunting and evacuation.
20. Can I export trophies?
Yes — with CITES paperwork and vet clearance.
21. What’s the terrain like in the Rif?
Steep, forested, cool climate.
22. What’s the terrain like in the Sahara?
Flat, dry, open — ideal for bird shooting.
23. Are outfitters licensed?
Yes — all legal hunts must be booked through licensed operators.
24. How far in advance should I book?
3–6 months minimum; 12 months for aoudad.
25. What’s the success rate for boar hunts in the Rif?
High with organized battues and experienced guides.
📊 Verified Field Insights: Rif vs. Sahara Hunting
• Rif Mountains: Boar populations are dense near cork oak forests and agricultural edges. Hunters often report 1–3 boars per day during peak battues. Barbary sheep are present but require multi-day stalks in remote ridges.
• Sahara Desert: Turtle dove concentrations spike near irrigated zones and oases during late summer. Waterfowl numbers increase in desert wetlands after seasonal rains.
• Wind & Light: Sahara hunts demand early morning setups due to heat and glare. Rif hunts benefit from midday drives when boars are flushed from cover.
• Local Support: Most successful hunts rely on local trackers and beaters familiar with terrain and animal movement.
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🧭 Cultural & Practical Add-Ons
• Local Interaction: Sharing meals with village hosts or guides builds trust and enhances the experience.
• Language: Arabic and French are dominant. Basic phrases help in rural zones.
• Food & Lodging: Most outfitters offer full board with regional cuisine — tagines, grilled meats, and fresh bread.
• Connectivity: Mobile coverage is limited in remote zones. Bring a satellite communicator or Garmin inReach.
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🏁 Final Takeaway: Morocco’s Hunting Diversity
Morocco offers:
• Real field hunts — no fences, no canned setups
• Diverse terrain: mountains, forests, deserts, wetlands
• Wide species range: boar, aoudad, birds, hare
• Affordable packages with professional logistics
• Cultural immersion and low hunting pressure
Whether you’re stalking sheep in the Rif cliffs or flushing doves in the Sahara wind, Morocco delivers tactical, rewarding hunts for serious sportsmen. With the right outfitter, tuned gear, and proper planning, you’ll walk away with trophies, meat, and a hunt worth repeating.
