Relationship between hunting organizations and wildlife in Turkey

Turkish people have lived in the Anatolian Peninsula for centuries and hunting has been an important part of their life. The Land Hunting Law, which protects game and wildlife resources, and regulation and control of hunting, was passed in 1937. Unfortunately illegal hunting continued until 1960 despite the existence of this law. There are many hunting clubs in every populated area except villages. However, there are more illegal hunters than legal ones. Hunting clubs are affiliated with the Hunting Federation which is responsible for making decisions on activities concerning hunting in each hunting season. Hunting clubs are involved in all decisions taken by the Federation. Consciencious hunters who are members of the hunting clubs, protest activities of illegal hunters. In addition, activities of hunting club members involve rearing and release of some important game birds and preservation of wildlife habitats.