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French village allows night-time shooting of wild boar
Mairie says the measure was the ‘only solution’
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A village in southern France has authorised night-time shooting of wild boar in an attempt to manage their numbers.
The municipal order was given by the mairie of Rodès, a commune of around 750 residents in Pyrénées-Orientales, after months of wild boar causing damage.
The order allows a lieutenant de louveterie, an official responsible for managing certain wild animal populations, to shoot wild boar at night.
The mairie said the measure was “the only solution” to address the situation, according to Actu Perpignan.
It also warned residents that they might hear gunshots during the night in the coming weeks, as the shooter is not required to use a silencer. The official, however, has to comply with the applicable distance regulations.
The Connexion contacted the mairie, which confirmed the measure, but said it did not wish to comment further.
How to keep boars away
Wild boar can damage lawns, vegetable patches and orchards as they dig for food.
People can help deter them by installing sturdy fencing secured at ground level, removing fallen fruit and securing rubbish bins. Commercial repellents may also help, although their effectiveness varies.
Wild boar generally avoid people but can become dangerous if threatened or protecting their young. Anyone encountering them should keep their distance and avoid trying to drive them away physically.
