France renews list of species designated as capable of causing damage

The French Ministry of Ecological Transition has updated the list of species deemed capable of causing damage (Esod), a designation previously referred to as pests. This new inventory is valid for three years, until 2029.

The list includes nine species: the red fox, European polecat, pine marten, weasel, carrion crow, rook, magpie, Eurasian jay, and common starling. Under the decree, these animals may be hunted, trapped, captured, or killed throughout the year to mitigate economic losses and risks to agricultural activities.

Specific regulations apply to different species. For instance, foxes can be trapped or dug up, while polecats, martens, and weasels may be trapped year-round, though certain restrictions apply near buildings or professional livestock farms. Corvids, such as crows and magpies, are subject to specific shooting periods, which can be extended via prefectural authorization to prevent significant agricultural damage. Shooting directly into nests remains prohibited.