Firearm compulsory, retrieving dog compulsory
Game may only be killed with a firearm; shotgun hunting on non-cloven game requires a suitable retrieving dog.
Article 23 narrows the means of killing to one: game may only be brought down or killed with firearms. Birds of prey and owls may not be used for hunting, and hunting may not take place using live decoys. The environment minister issues detailed rules on which types of firearm and ammunition may be used, on the sale of certain ammunition, and on which ammunition may not be taken hunting. Article 24 imposes a requirement that is as much about ethics as technique: when hunting with a smoothbore shotgun for non-cloven-hoofed game on and from land areas and in reed and rush beds, a suitable retrieving dog must be brought along. Two mobility bans close the picture: hunting may not take place from a motor vehicle or aircraft (article 25), nor from a motorised craft on lakes and other fresh waters (article 26). The minister may also regulate hunting methods and prohibit particular forms within defined areas.