The hunting season in La Pampa started with a large influx of foreign visitors. As reported by the Deputy Director of Wildlife, Federico Pelizzari, more than 1,200 hunters from other countries have arrived in the province so far this year to participate in hunting activities, regulated under the Provincial Wildlife Law No. 1,194.
The conservationist legislation establishes that all hunting is prohibited except for expressly authorized modalities. “It is an old law that regulates different forms of hunting. There are people in favor and against it, but it is the current regulation and must be complied with,” explained Pelizzari.
The official detailed that more than 11,000 hunting permits were issued in 2023, generating a significant economic impact. “When the season starts in March, the arrival of private flights can be observed at airports, demonstrating the impact of this activity,” he pointed out.
In terms of employment, hunting reserves not only employ direct workers, but also boost related sectors such as guides, taxidermists, cooks, and local businesses. “Although the exact numbers belong to private companies, the economic impact is significant,” stated Pelizzari.
Hunters from around the world
Most visitors come from the United States, although hunters from Spain, France, Germany, Brazil, and Uruguay are also recorded. The allowed species include wild boar and red deer, as well as axis deer, fallow deer, mouflons, and buffalos in the authorized reserves.
Hunting trophies require a process regulated by the National Wildlife and Senasa. “Some hunters opt for taxidermy, and the trophies are prepared and sent to their final destinations,” Pelizzari noted. Regarding the meat, it is used locally, although its sale is prohibited.
Expansion of bow and arrow hunting in La Pampa
A growing trend is hunting with bow and arrow, permitted since the enactment of the law. “Today, bows have evolved technologically and have a lethality comparable to that of a firearm,” the official explained.
Pelizzari emphasized that hunting also plays a role in controlling exotic species such as wild boar and deer, which lack natural predators in the region. “In other countries, the wild boar is already considered a pest. Additionally, rural producers report damages to their crops,” he argued.
Finally, the Deputy Director highlighted the importance of La Pampa in global hunting tourism. “From Parque Luro to the present day, the province is internationally recognized, with fairs where Pampean hunting reserves promote and sell hunting trips, including accommodation and transportation,” he concluded.
Can foreigners hunt in Argentina?
According to different local regulations, foreigners can hunt in Argentina, but they must meet certain requirements.
Requirements for hunting in Argentina
- Have the Legitimate User of Arms Credential, issued by the National Arms Registry (RENAR)
- Pass an exam on hunting regulations, wildlife conservation, safety, and firearm use
- Pay a fee
- Have a valid passport
- Request the “authorization for temporary introduction and possession” of weapons and ammunition from the Argentine Consulate of the country of residence
Hunting permits for foreigners
In Tucumán, foreigners can apply for a permit for tourists and/or visitors at the Directorate of Wildlife, Wildlife, and Soils, while in the province of Buenos Aires, hunting permits can be processed
Hunting regulations in Argentina
Law 22,421 regulates hunting activity and protects wildlife at the national level. However, each province can establish its own hunting seasons, leading to variations in the allowed time periods. Furthermore, the Province of Buenos Aires prohibits the hunting of wild animals.
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