MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Scientific basis for the re-authorisation of turtle dove hunting – E-001381/2025

Question for written answer  E-001381/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Jutta Paulus (Verts/ALE)

The turtle dove is protected in the EU under the Birds Directive and, according to the IUCN, is considered vulnerable. Following many years of population decline, the Commission enforced a hunting ban in several Member States in 2021. It has now decided to partially lift this ban in Western Europe and to allow a limited hunting quota of 132 000 individuals per year.

Current scientific data, however, show that the populations are still not at the 2000 levels and that climate change-related droughts are further reducing reproductive success.

• 1.What scientific basis has the Commission used to justify the re-authorisation of hunting despite the fact that populations have not yet recovered?
• 2.How will the Commission ensure that the permitted hunting quota does not further endanger the species?
• 3.In what way did the Commission take into account the negative effects of climate change, in particular droughts, on the breeding success of the turtle dove in its decision?

Submitted: 3.4.2025