Francolin Hunting Season 2025: Punjab Announces Official Dates & Strict Rules. Punjab’s Wildlife Department has officially announced the Francolin Hunting Season 2025, along with strict rules, phased hunting dates, and controlled permit auctions. If you’re wondering when the hunting season starts, where it’s allowed, and what rules you must follow, this guide covers everything in a clean, easy-to-read format.
What is the Francolin Hunting Season?
The Francolin hunting season is a regulated period when hunters in Punjab are allowed to hunt species like the Black Francolin and Grey Francolin under strict wildlife laws. Each year, the department sets controlled dates, hunting zones, and permit quotas to protect wildlife populations.
Punjab Announces Official Francolin Hunting Season 2025 Dates
This year, the department has finalized three structured phases to manage hunter flow and protect bird populations.
Hunting Season Phases
| Phase | Dates | Allowed Days | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Dec 1, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026 | Sundays Only | Most popular window |
| Phase 2 | Dec 14, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026 | Sundays Only | Limited permit slots |
| Phase 3 | Jan 10, 2026 – Feb 15, 2026 | Sundays Only | For late applicants |
Important Conditions
- Hunting is only allowed on Sundays
- Hunters must carry a licensed weapon
- Only registered permit holders can hunt
- Violations can result in heavy penalties
Where Hunting is Allowed in Punjab
The government has clearly restricted hunting to officially designated grounds. These areas are prepared and surveyed by the Wildlife Department to ensure sustainability.
Approved Hunting Locations
- Dedicated open grounds authorized by Punjab Wildlife Department
- Officially selected public hunting zones
- Specially prepared wildlife-monitored areas
Where Hunting is NOT Allowed
- Private lands without wildlife approval
- Protected reserves not listed in the schedule
- Any unregistered rural or forest region
- Urban or suburban green belts
The aim is to prevent illegal hunting and ensure safe, sustainable wildlife management.
Hunting Permit Auctions Announced
To maintain transparency, Punjab has released the final auction dates for Francolin hunting permits in 2025.
Official Auction Schedule
| Hunting Ground | Auction Dates | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Salt Range Hunting Ground | Dec 8–10 | Highest-demand region |
| Lahore Safari Zoo | Dec 2–4 | Controlled permit release |
| Cholistan & Chinkara Public Wildlife Reserves | Jan 10–Feb 15, 2026 | Open permit window |
Permit Rules
- Hunters must register with valid CNIC
- Only limited permits available per region
- Auctioned permits are non-transferable
- Hunters must follow assigned hunting phase
This controlled distribution helps prevent wildlife exploitation.
Strict Ban on Dangerous Weapons & Gadgets
To prevent unethical or unfair hunting, Punjab’s Wildlife Department has issued a complete ban on several weapon types and modern gadgets.
Banned Weapon Types
- Automatic guns
- Military-grade firearms
- Silencer-fitted weapons
- Air guns
Banned Gadgets & Devices
- Drones
- Electronic tracking devices
- Infrared or night-vision tools
Penalty Warning
Anyone violating hunting laws may face:
- Heavy fines
- Confiscation of weapons
- Cancellation of permits
- Possible legal action
This ensures ethical and safer hunting practices.
Why These Rules Matter (Expert Insight)
Wildlife conservationists argue that unrestricted hunting of Francolins can:
- Disturb natural breeding cycles
- Decrease bird population density
- Impact local ecosystems
- Encourage illegal commercial hunting
By introducing phased windows, permit auctions, and weapon restrictions, Punjab’s Wildlife Department aims to balance hunting traditions with sustainability.
Step-By-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Hunting Permit
If you plan to participate in the 2025 Francolin Hunting Season, here’s the simple process:
1. Check Eligibility
- Must be 18+
- Must possess a valid CNIC
- Must own a licensed firearm
2. Visit the Designated Office
Head to your nearest Wildlife Department regional office.
3. Register for Permit Auction
Provide:
- CNIC
- Firearm license
- Passport-size photo
- Application form
4. Bid for a Permit
Each region has different base bidding prices.
5. Receive Permit Document
After winning, you’ll receive:
- Territory allocation
- Valid hunting dates
- Official guidelines
6. Follow Rules Strictly
Any permit misuse leads to immediate cancellation.
Best Practices for Responsible Francolin Hunting
1. Follow Limit Rules
Never exceed the allowed bird count per hunting day.
2. Avoid Disturbing Nesting Zones
Stay away from areas marked for breeding.
3. Do Not Litter
Keep wildlife habitats clean.
4. Respect Other Hunters
Follow standard safety protocols.
5. Report Illegal Hunting
Support conservation efforts.
Comparison: Legal vs Illegal Hunting Activities
| Activity | Legal | Illegal |
|---|---|---|
| Hunting with registered permit | Yes | NO |
| Using automatic guns | NO | Yes |
| Hunting on Sundays only | Yes | NO |
| Hunting outside designated zones | NO | Yes |
| Carrying weapon license | Yes | NO |
| Using drones to detect birds | NO | Yes |
This table helps readers quickly understand the rules.
FAQs
1. When does the Francolin Hunting Season 2025 start in Punjab?
It begins on December 1, 2025, depending on the phase you are assigned.
2. Can I hunt any day during the season?
No. Hunting is only allowed on Sundays.
3. Do I need a permit to hunt Francolins in Punjab?
Yes, a government-issued hunting permit is mandatory.
4. Are drones allowed for locating birds?
No, drones and electronic tracking devices are strictly banned.
5. Where can I get a hunting permit?
Permits are auctioned at designated locations like Salt Range, Lahore Safari Zoo, and Cholistan Wildlife Reserves.
6. What weapons are allowed?
Only licensed non-automatic firearms.
7. What happens if I break hunting rules?
Penalties include fines, weapon confiscation, permit cancellation, and legal action.
Conclusion
Punjab’s announcement for the Francolin Hunting Season 2025 brings clear dates, transparent permit auctions, and strong regulations for ethical hunting. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a first-time applicant, following these guidelines ensures a safe, legal, and responsible experience.
