Trans-Baikal Region cracks down on illegal hunting with record fines and wildlife protection
The Trans-Baikal Region has released its latest hunting and wildlife management report. Authorities processed thousands of permits, uncovered hundreds of violations, and seized illegal equipment. The crackdown also led to significant financial recoveries and environmental initiatives.
Over the past year, officials handled 36,900 applications for hunting licences and issued 44,487 permit forms. Among these, 17,000 requests were for limited-species hunting, with 15,600 permits granted. Twelve exams for hunter training were conducted to ensure compliance with regulations.
Inspections revealed 307 administrative breaches and 11 criminal offences tied to illegal hunting. Thirty-two prohibited tools, including 17 rifled firearms, were confiscated. Poaching caused damages exceeding 1.58 million rubles, but nearly all losses were recovered through fines and penalties. The region designated 123 hunting grounds and signed two game management agreements. A notable operation in 2021 saw the State Hunting Inspection (Gosohotinspektion) set a trap to catch a hunter operating without valid documents in a protected area. Wildlife control efforts resulted in 948 wolf pelts submitted, exceeding the target of 920. Revenues for federal and regional budgets over nine months surpassed 22.5 million rubles, with around 10 million rubles paid in state fees to the federal budget. Additionally, three environmental projects worth nearly 2 million rubles were approved as compensation for wildlife impacts.
The regionâs strict enforcement and permit system generated substantial revenue while curbing illegal activity. With nearly all poaching damages recovered and environmental projects funded, authorities continue to balance conservation with regulated hunting. The 2025 forecast expects 44,487 permits to be issued, maintaining tight oversight.
