Shenzhen imposes citywide ban on illegal hunting

Shenzhen has launched a sweeping crackdown on illegal hunting, enacting its most stringent legal measures to date to safeguard the city’s ecological environment and biodiversity.

Under the new regulation, hunting is permanently prohibited across the entire city, including terrestrial wildlife habitats, ecological corridors, nature reserves, scenic areas, and parks. The city has also adopted the “List of Key Protected Wild Animals in China” to classify protected species.

A wild boar is spotted along the hiking trails of Wutong Mountain, Luohu District. Liu Xudong

Law enforcement agencies, including the police, have vowed a "zero-tolerance" stance against wildlife crimes. Authorities will strictly target the use of illegal tools — such as air guns, snares, traps, and bird nets — and will confiscate any hunting equipment used.

The Planning and Natural Resources Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality warned that violations will carry severe legal weight. Entities or individuals breaching the ban will face stiff administrative penalties, while those whose actions constitute a criminal offense will be held criminally liable.

Citizens are encouraged to play an active role in conservation by reporting illegal hunting or habitat destruction via the 12345 government hotline. This initiative aims to foster public legal awareness and encourage community-wide participation in environmental protection.