Fox hunting have long traditions in different European countries. Here is a short overview of European fox hunting in a few European countries.
United Kingdom:
In the annals of English history, fox hunting stands as an emblem of tradition, nobility, and rural life.
Fox hunting in England’s past was a grand and storied tradition closely associated with the nobility, their horses, and the sprawling landscapes of the countryside. It encapsulated the essence of a bygone era when the pursuit of the fox was as much about heritage and social distinction as it was about the thrill of the chase.
Fox hunting with dogs was banned in England and Wales by the Hunting Act 2004, which came into force in 2005. Scotland also has its own hunting legislation.
The ban remains a contentious issue, with debates over its effectiveness and calls for its repeal from some hunting enthusiasts.
Ireland:
Ireland has a long history of fox hunting, with many hunting clubs and traditions.
Fox hunting with hounds is still legal in Ireland, and it remains a popular pastime, especially in rural areas.
France:
Fox hunting, known as “Vénerie,” has a long tradition in France, particularly in the rural regions.
While there are regulations and restrictions on fox hunting, it is not outright banned, and hunting associations play a significant role in its regulation.
Spain:
Fox hunting, known as “caza del zorro,” is also a traditional activity in Spain.
Regulations and rules vary by region, with some areas allowing it and others imposing restrictions or bans.
Germany:
Fox hunting with hounds is legal in some parts of Germany, particularly in the state of Lower Saxony.
In other states, fox hunting is heavily regulated, and there are restrictions on the types of dogs that can be used.
Portugal:
Fox hunting, called “monteria,” is a traditional hunting practice in Portugal.
There are regulations in place to control hunting activities, and hunters must obtain permits.
That was some of European fox hunting tradition in most important countries of Europe.
Romania:
100 years ago, maybe more, the fox hunting in Romania was a common practice during the winter time. You will find some similarities with European fox hunting ways of hunt. The old Romanian hunters surround a large area of reeds while a pack of hound was released inside the reeds. Once the hounds smell the trail of the fox they will start barking and indicate the hunters the direction where the fox will go out from the reeds.
In the communism time, especially during Ceausescu, fox hunting was a big business. A fox skin was quite expensive, 10 skins was equivalent of a good salary, it I remember correctly. Beside the money the local hunting association was given the hunters also 5 shells for free for every fox skin. In those time was very popular fox hunting with terriers.
The principle was easy, hunter release the terrier in one of the fox den whole and wait on the others exit wholes for the fox to came out.
Today this type of fox hunting in Romania is not very popular anymore comparing with European fox hunting in other countries. However more and more hunter are using the nordic caller(but not only) to hunt foxes.
A fox caller is a device that emits sounds that mimic the distress calls of small animals, like injured rabbits or birds. These devices can be electronic or manual. It is a beautiful and very exciting hunt, especially if you use a manual caller. The distress calls are designed to pique the curiosity or predatory instincts of foxes, luring them toward the sound source, and into shooting range.
The most successful period is during the rut of foxes. The fox females are fallow by one or two males and if the female is attracted by the caller the males will fallow her. A small caliber rifle will bring you a lot of satisfaction.
Last but not least while you are calling a fox you can have a pleasant surprise to attract a golden jackal.
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