HUNTING IN PAKISTAN – THE DIMINISHING GAME VERSUS HUNTING ETHICS
I am amazed to see how hunters in Pakistan sprouted in the past decade. Or maybe it’s the advent of social media that every 3 out 10 we see takes pride in being a hunter and more so want to be known and identified as a hunter (besides his real name). That’s not bad at all. Everyone has a right to experience the sport of hunting. But with such rapidly growing number of hunters, who is to ensure the new generation of hunters know the sport right and do the sport right?
Personally, it’s not just picking up a gun and go out shooting. It’s more than that. Hunting has been an ancient, natural and honorable activity since the existence of mankind. But then there have been fine lines, lines between shooting for need and shooting for sport. Both with their respective ethics and code of practice. I’m not talking about the law since a minimal level of conduct in field is already mandated by law. What I’m trying to say is when it is beyond the law, say, when an action is legal but ethically questionable or when no one is watching. That’s where ethics in the field become an individual responsibility. And that’s my concern with the new breed of hunters in Pakistan.
Many of us bring the indigenous knowledge of hunting from our elders. That old school style of game is the classic version of Ethics and Code of practice of game bird shooting. But with millennials, the case is not true to all. Most of them are inspired by peers with lesser concern for field ethics or by social media influencers with dramatic content. And that is the lot where awareness is much needed. Much of the problems in our habitat are due to lack of field ethics. I may not be an expert in the field, but know the game for good part of my life. In my math, diminishing game bird is directly proportional to the diminishing values associated with this sport. And to ensure a safe future for the sport, more attention is needed at the other side of equation.
I believe ethical hunting means that a person knows and respects the game he/ she pursues and not just abides by the law but also behaves in a way that satisfies what society expects of a hunter. It must be in such a way that ensures your chance to come back for the game. I still don’t have a precise definition for ethical hunting. But I guarantee if you embrace the following grass root considerations, you shall be counted among those who respected the game and stood for the game:
- Understand the game and its habitat
- Practice not above but beyond the law
- Stay aware of shot placement
- Follow up every shot
- Receive the dispatched game with respect
- Respect the opinion of non-hunters
- Behave prudently, it has a direct impact on public opinion
- Stay aware of private property and landowner rights and;
- Choose your hunting companions wisely
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Taking pride in being a hunter is good but taking pride in being an Ethical Hunter is a different feeling. I urge you to feel it and leave an ethical pathway for next generation to follow!
Aptly surmised, we need to educate our becoming generations about the preservation for posterity. Social media boast has caused much damage. A lot of miles to be covered.
Very good effort, keep the flame burning.
Need of the hour Sir. I fear our children won’t be able to hear francolins calling in the wild, a hare suddenly popping behind a rock and the art of tracking the game. Thanks for taking time to read through and appreciating.
Regards