# From Removal to Selective Control: Perspectives on Predation Management in Spanish Hunting Grounds

## TL;DR

This study examines how predator control is managed in Spanish hunting grounds, focusing on species like foxes and magpies, and suggests a shift toward more sustainable predation management.

## Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive analysis of current predator control practices across 16 Spanish regions and proposes a framework for sustainable predation management.

## Key findings

- Predator control is widespread in Spanish hunting grounds, with red foxes being the most frequently targeted species.
- Control intensity varies depending on whether hunters or gamekeepers perform the control.
- Habitat management is more common in areas that do not engage in predator control.

## Abstract

Predator control has been historically conducted in the hunting grounds of Spain; after the enforcement of international agreements and regulations, it has been conducted using selective and non-massive methods. In this study, we explored the current predator control regulations in 16 Spanish regions, as well as the management traits at the hunting ground level, using data from 373 questionnaires. Predator control through shooting was legal in all regions, mainly targeting the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and Eurasian magpie (Pica pica), and wild boar (Sus scrofa) (which was considered a predatory species), while the use of approved restraint traps was allowed in 11 regions (but only used in 7). Predator control was a widespread measure conducted in hunting grounds (87%), and the control intensity was influenced by factors such as who performed the control (hunters or gamekeepers). The current predator management system in Spain is mainly based on predator control, but there is a possibility of shifting towards a “predation management” framework through professionalization and support for habitat management and apex predators.

Historically, predator control has been a frequent practice conducted in the hunting grounds of Spain. After the approval of Law 42/2007 on Natural Heritage and Biodiversity, and the enforcement of international regulations, predator control methods are required to be selective, non-massive, and conducted by trained specialists when traps are used; however, there is a lack of research on the current status of predator management. Data was gathered from 16 regional wildlife departments and from 373 questionnaires from hunting grounds targeting the conservation of small game species. Seven predatory species were included in the regional game species lists, the most frequently controlled being the red fox (Vulpes vulpes, 90.4%), wild boar (Sus scrofa, 78.3%), and Eurasian magpie (Pica pica, 51.5%), with control intensity differing among regions. In total, 87% of the questionnaire respondents declared controlling at least one predator species, while 49.3% employed gamekeepers to perform the control. In all surveyed regions, shooting was authorized, and it was the most frequent control method in hunting grounds for the aforementioned species (ranging from 76 to 100%), while the use of approved restraint methods was allowed in 11 regions but only used in 7 for foxes (8%) and magpies (25%). The control intensity (animals culled/km2) for foxes was higher when conducted by full-time keepers, while for magpies and wild boars, it was higher when conducted by hunters. The implementation of habitat management (agricultural and forest measures) that helps to reduce predation was higher in hunting grounds not conducting predator control. Based on our results, we propose a national predation management framework focused on controlling rather than removing predators.