The Country of Romania

Romania is a country located in southeastern Europe, known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Carpathian Mountains to the Black Sea coast and the Danube Delta.

• Capital: Bucharest
• Official Language: Romanian
• Currency: Romanian Leu (RON)
• Population (2024): Approximately 21.89 million
• Geography: Romania’s terrain is almost evenly divided between mountains, hills, and plains. The Carpathian Mountains, which are not as high as the Alps, run through the country in an arch shape, dividing the country into three major ranges: the Eastern, Southern (also known as the Transylvanian Alps), and Western Carpathians. The Danube River ends its journey in southeastern Romania, forming the vast Danube Delta, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a protected wetland.
• Climate: The climate is temperate-continental, with four distinct seasons.

Wildlife in Romania

Romania’s diverse habitats, particularly the vast, unspoiled forests of the Carpathian Mountains and the unique ecosystem of the Danube Delta, support some of Europe’s most significant wildlife populations.

Notable Wildlife:

• Mammals: Romania hosts the largest population of Brown Bears in the European Union, with over 5,000 individuals. It is also home to a significant number of Gray Wolves and Eurasian Lynx, making it a key sanctuary for Europe’s major large carnivores. Other mammals include the European Bison (which has been successfully reintroduced in some areas), Red Deer, Roe Deer, Wild Boar, and Chamois.
• Birds: The Danube Delta is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds, including the Dalmatian Pelican, White Pelican, Great White Egret, and various species of herons and eagles. The mountains are home to birds of prey like the Golden Eagle and Bearded Vulture, as well as species like the Black Grouse.
• National Parks and Conservation: Romania has 14 national parks and 17 natural parks. The Danube Delta National Park and Retezat National Park are UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. The country is a leader in “rewilding” efforts, particularly with the reintroduction of the European Bison, which is seen as a symbol of conservation success.

Hunting in Romania

Hunting in Romania is a long-standing tradition, and the country is a popular destination for international hunters due to its large populations of big game.

Key Aspects of Hunting in Romania:

• Regulation and Management: Hunting is strictly regulated and managed by the central public authority responsible for forestry. The country is divided into hunting funds, which are managed by hunting organizations and the national forest company. The management aims to maintain optimal game numbers and quality.
• Licensing and Requirements: Foreign hunters must have a valid hunting license from their home country, international accident insurance, and a permit for their hunting gun. These documents are usually arranged in advance by a hunting outfitter in Romania.
• Game Animals and Seasons:
  • Big Game: Romania is particularly famous for its hunts for Brown Bear, Wild Boar, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Fallow Deer, and Chamois. The red deer rutting season in September and October is a popular time for hunters.
  • Small Game and Birds: Small game hunting includes species like pheasants, hares, and various waterfowl.
• Hunting Methods: Common hunting methods include stalking, waiting in a high seat or blind, and driven hunts, especially for wild boar.
• Hunting Tourism: Romania is a well-established destination for hunting tourism. Outfitters offer packages that include all necessary permits, guided hunts, and accommodations, often with local cuisine and hospitality. The funds generated from these hunts are used for game management and conservation efforts.