The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has authorised the controlled hunting of the Russian dove under strict regulations aimed at preserving ecological balance.

According to the provincial Wildlife Department, the hunting season will remain open until May 31, 2026, in line with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife and Biodiversity Act 2015.

Officials stated that hunting will only be permitted on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and strictly for individuals holding a valid small game shooting licence.

To prevent overhunting, authorities have imposed a daily bag limit of eight birds per hunter. Anyone found exceeding this limit will face a fine of Rs 5,000 per bird, along with legal proceedings.

Additional restrictions include a complete ban on hunting before sunrise and after sunset. Authorities also warned that hunting outside the designated days will result in immediate legal action.

Wildlife monitoring teams will keep track of bird populations throughout the season and may suspend hunting if necessary to protect the species.

Spokesperson Latif ur Rehman said the move is part of wider efforts to ensure environmental protection, encourage sustainable hunting practices, and conserve wildlife.