The 2026–2027 hunting season has officially launched in Armenia, with the list of game animals, permissible quotas, and precise dates established. The relevant order by the Minister of Environment came into effect on August 25 and regulates the hunting of 14 animal species.
The hunting season will be conducted in two main phases, during which different weekly schedule regimes will apply. In the first phase, running from August 29 to October 18, hunting is permitted from Wednesdays to Sundays. The second phase will begin on October 31 and last until February 21, 2027, during which hunting will be open from Thursdays to Sundays. Moreover, hunting is also allowed on official holidays and days of remembrance during both phases.
It is important to note that hunting is completely prohibited during the 12-day period between October 19 and October 30. This hiatus divides the two phases of the hunting season, and hunting any species is strictly forbidden during this period.
Total limits and daily quotas have been set for each species. Among birds, the largest allocation has been given to quail, with 98,900 head, and a single hunter may harvest no more than 10 per day. The quota for rock dove is set at 42,900, Eurasian coot at 31,000, and mallard duck at 25,000. Chukar partridge hunting is permitted from October 31 to December 27, with a total quota of 13,750 head.
Regarding mammals, the total quota for European hare is 555 head, with a limit of no more than 1 per day. For wild boar, the limit is set at 74 head, with hunting permitted only for hunting parties of at least 4 people, who may harvest 1 per day. The total quota for red fox is unlimited, but each hunter may harvest a maximum of 2 per day. Additionally, holders of proper permits can hunt hooded crow, magpie, and golden jackal without limits, while for wolves, hunting only a single individual is allowed.
Regulating the hunting season and defining clear quotas are of primary importance for preserving the local ecosystem and biodiversity balance. The established numbers highlight which species require special protection, thereby determining strict limitations on their hunting.
In practice, the most critical issue remains the proper enforcement of these rules, as without effective inspection supervision, the established quotas risk remaining solely on paper. Consequently, the effectiveness of supervisory bodies in preventing illegal hunting on the ground will be crucial over the coming months.
