The Country of Hungary

Hungary is a landlocked country in Central Europe, known for its vast plains, rich cultural history, and thermal waters.

• Capital: Budapest
• Official Language: Hungarian
• Currency: Hungarian Forint (Ft, HUF)
• Population (2024): Approximately 9.6 million
• Geography: Most of Hungary’s landscape consists of the flat to rolling terrain of the Great Hungarian Plain. The country is crossed by two major rivers, the Danube and the Tisza. Although mostly low-lying, Hungary does have several low to moderately high mountain ranges, primarily in the north and west. Lake Balaton, often referred to as the “Hungarian Sea,” is the largest lake in Central Europe and a popular recreational area.
• Climate: The country has a continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and hot summers.

Wildlife in Hungary

Hungary’s combination of wetlands, grasslands (puszta), and forested mountains provides habitats for a diverse range of wildlife.

Notable Wildlife:

• Mammals: Hungary is home to a variety of big game animals, including Red Deer, Fallow Deer, Roe Deer, and Mouflon. Wild Boar are also very common. The country has seen the return of some large carnivores, with small populations of Brown Bears, Gray Wolves, and Eurasian Lynx in the northern mountains. The endangered European Ground Squirrel is also present.
• Birds: The Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a critical bird sanctuary and a key stopover for migratory birds. Notable bird species include the Great Bustard, Saker Falcon, Red-footed Falcon, and Eastern Imperial Eagle. The country also has a significant population of White Storks and various waterfowl, including cranes and geese, especially during migration.
• Conservation: Hungary has made significant efforts in conservation, particularly in protecting its wetlands and grasslands. The reintroduction of species like the beaver and ongoing programs to protect large carnivores are important parts of the country’s conservation strategy.

Hunting in Hungary

Hungary is internationally renowned as a premier destination for trophy hunting, thanks to a long history of meticulous game management.

Key Aspects of Hunting in Hungary:

• Regulation and Management: Hunting rights belong to the state but are transferred to hunting clubs, which lease territories. Foreign hunters must have a valid hunting contract or invitation and the necessary licenses and permits. They must also have a valid firearms license from their home country and a hunter’s liability insurance.
• Game Animals and Seasons: Hungary is famous for its high-quality trophies, and hunting seasons are set by law.
  • Big Game:
    • Red Stag: Rutting season in September and October.
    • Roe Buck: Hunting season runs from April to September.
    • Fallow Deer: Rutting season in October.
    • Wild Boar: Can be hunted year-round, with driven hunts being a popular method in the cooler months.
    • Mouflon Ram: Can be hunted year-round, but the rutting season in the autumn is most popular.
  • Small Game: Includes species like hare, pheasant, and wild geese.
• Hunting Methods: Common methods are stalking and hunting from a high seat, especially for big game. Driven hunts are a specialty for wild boar, offering a unique and exciting experience.
• Hunting Culture: Hunting in Hungary is deeply rooted in tradition and ceremony. Hunters place a strong emphasis on fair chase, ethical conduct, and honoring the game. The country hosted the World Hunting Exhibition in 1971, solidifying its reputation as a global hunting leader.