France authorizes hunting of 12,000 Wood Thrushes

The French government has authorized the hunting of the Wood Thrush (Tourterelle des bois) for the 2026-2027 season, setting a national quota of 12,000 birds. This represents a 13.6% increase from the 10,560 birds permitted in 2025.

Animal Cross has criticized the decision, stating that the resumption of hunting is premature and contradicts expert opinions and previous rulings by the Conseil d’État. Experts have expressed concerns regarding the sustainability of this quota for birds nesting or migrating within France.

Public opposition remains significant; in previous consultations, a large majority of participants voted against reopening the hunt, with approximately 71% of contributions in 2025 being unfavorable to the measure.