Image: BirdBush_Jamaica
The official Game Bird hunting season, also known as Bird Bush, began on Saturday, August 21, 2021.
It will run from Saturday, August 21 to Sunday, September 26, 2021.
On the eve of a three-day national lockdown in Jamaica to help curb a rising Covid-19 infection rate, hunters flocked to the wilderness to enjoy their last hours of freedom.
On the Sunday lockdown, hunting had been suspended.
However, on Saturdays the hunting time spans from sunrise to 9am and from 2:30pm to sunset. In a disclaimer posted on the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) website they urged all hunters to obey all Covid-19 protocols.
Regulations
With all sporting activities in Jamaica there are regulations.
Therefore, only the following species of birds are able to be hunted:
- Zenaida Dove/Pea Dove
- White-winged Dove
- White crowned Pigeon/Baldpate
- Mourning Dove/Long-tailed Pea Dove
There is a limit on the amount of birds that can be shot per session. The limit is 20 birds. However, no more than 15 should be a White-crowned pigeon.
As per the media release, hunting within reserves/sanctuaries, forest reserves, the John Crow and Blue Mountains National Park, and within 50 meters of their boundaries are strictly prohibited.
All hunters must obtain a Hunter’s Licence from the NEPA head office at 10 Caledonia Avenue, Kingston 5, or any other authorised vendor, at a cost of $25,000.
And they must possess a valid firearm licence/ user’s permit for a shotgun.