Bejagung

Bejagung is the term used in German-speaking contexts for the pursuit, capture, and often killing of wild animals. It covers activities that aim to harvest game for food or sport, as well as regulated population management and pest control. The word is derived from be- (toward) plus jagen (to hunt) and reflects the broader concept of pursuing game rather than incidental hunting.

Bejagung is typically governed by wildlife and hunting laws that establish who may hunt, what species may be hunted, when, and how many individuals may be taken. Practitioners usually require a license or certificate, complete safety training, and must follow seasons, bag limits, and protected species provisions. Illegal hunting or poaching is distinguished from legal bejagung and is punishable in most jurisdictions.

Common methods include firearm hunting, archery, and trapping, often complemented by dogs or drives to locate and corner game. Some forms involve baiting, night hunting, or aerial management techniques, each subject to specific legal restrictions and animal welfare considerations.

The ecological rationale for bejagung varies: in many settings it helps maintain balanced ecosystems, reduce crop damage, and support biodiversity under carefully managed quotas. Critics point to welfare concerns, risks of overharvesting, and ethical questions about hunting for sport.

Historically, bejagung ranges from subsistence hunting in rural communities to modern wildlife management and recreational hunting. Debates continue about its role in conservation, rural economies, and animal welfare.