hunting

the pursuit and killing or capture of wild animals regarded as a sport the activity of looking thoroughly in order to find something or someone the work of finding and killing or capturing animals for food or pelts

This article is about the hunting of prey by human society. For other uses of the word "hunting", see Hunting (disambiguation). "Hunter" and "huntress" redirect here; for other uses of these words, see Hunter (disambiguation) and Huntress (disambiguation).''Hunting is most commonly applied to the practice of pursuing animals to capture or kill them for food, sport, or trade in their products. Hunting should be distinguished from "poaching" which is the killing, trapping or capture of game animals contrary to law. Animals so hunted are referred to as game animals. By definition, hunting excludes the killing of individual animals that have become dangerous to humans and the killing of vermin as a means of pest control. Although hunting also technically excludes wildlife management to maintain a population of animals within an environment's carrying capacity, regulatory and licensing bodies may restrict the bag limit such that only animals in excess of the environment's carrying capacity may be harvested.

History - use much the same techniques that have been used for thousands of years. Hunting is now banned in Kenya.]]

Old roots - In ancient societies, before the widespread domestication of animals, hunting was generally vital for survival as part of the hunter-gatherer way of life. For most humans before the development of agriculture, hunting would have provided an important source of protein to augment the foraged plants and vegetables that made up the majority of their diet. In addition, animal hides were used for clothing and shelters. The earliest hunting weapons would have included rocks, the Atlatl and Bow (weapon)bow and arrows.Even when domestication#Animal Domesticationanimal domestication became relatively widespread, hunting was usually a significant contributor to the food supply available to a population. In addition, animal parts such as hides and horns were utilized in clothing and tools, and not all of these products could be provided from the domestication of animals. The importance of hunting in ancient societies is represented by deities such as the Greek Artemis alias the Roman Diana (both lunar goddesses, among the twelve major divinities with an equivalent in nearly every ancient Mediterranean culture) or Cernunnos, the Horned God. The mythological association of a prey species with a divinity could be reflected in hunting restrictions, often a 'reserve' surrounding its temple(s).Hunter-gathering cultures existed along-side agrarian societies with whom they traded. This did not always result in a cultural transition from hunting-gathering to agrarian domestication. Also, in chilly climates, the hides or furs of animals would be used as clothing (see trapping). The Inuit peoples in the Artic could produce complicated parkas consisting of up to 60 stitched pieces capable of with-standing sub-zero temperatures. From the skins of sea mammals they produced, and still produce, water-proof kayaks, clothing, gloves and footwear. With domestication of the dog, Bird of preybirds of prey and the ferret, various forms of animal-aided hunting developed including venery (scent hound hunting, such as fox hunting), coursing (sight hound hunting), falconry and ferreting. These are all associated with medieval hunting; in time various dog breeds were selected for very precise tasks during the hunt, reflected in such names as pointer and setter.As hunting moved from a strictly necessary activity for survival to one of many staples of society, two trends emerged. One was that of the specialist hunter - a position previously held by just about every able-bodied male (usually) in the society. As domesticated farming and herding took hold, hunting became one of many trades to be pursued by those with the necessary training.The other trend was the emergence of hunting as a sport. As game became more of a luxury than a dietary necessity, the pursuit of it could equally well be considered a luxury pursuit. Still dangerous hunting, as for lions or wild boars, usually on horseback (or from a chariot, as in Pharaonic Egypt and Mesopotamia) also had a similar function as tournaments and various manly sports: an honourable, often somewhat competetive passtime helping the aristocracy in peace time to practice in the skills of warfare. In most parts of medieval Europe, the upper-class (aristocracy and higher clergy) obtained as proud privilege the sole rights to hunt (and sometimes fish) in certain areas of a feudal territory. Game in these areas was certainly used as a source of food and furs, often provided via professional huntsmen; but it was also expected to provide a form of recreation for the aristocracy. The importance of this proprietary view of game can be seen in the Robin Hood legends, in which one of the primary charges against the outlaws is that they "hunt the King's deer".

Modern Hunting for Sport - In time, this aristocratic type of hunting lost its roots as a source of food and supplies, while retaining its prestigious nature as a sport, eagerly adopted by the rising bourgeoisie. Hunting in North America in the 1800s was done primarily as a way to supplement food supplies. The safari (hunting)safari method of hunting was a development of sport hunting that saw elaborate travel in Africa, India and other places in pursuit of trophies. In modern times, trophy hunting persists, but is frowned upon by some when it involves rare or endangered species of animal. Other people also object to trophy hunting in general because it is seen as a senseless act of killing another living thing for recreation, rather than food.Advocates of trophy hunting disagree. They state that the vast majority of the edible portions of the animal are consumed by the hunters themselves or given to local inhabitants. This along with fees paid to hunt contribute to the local economy and provide value to animals that would otherwise be seen as competition for grazing, livestock, and crops sfgate.com. In Tanzania it is estimated that safari hunter spends 50-100 times that of the average eco-tourist and at a lower environmental impact. The average photo tourist demands luxury accommodations and at a higher number of visitors to make the endeavor financially viable. In contrast the average safari hunter travels on foot, staying in tented camps and in vastly smaller numbers. Safari hunters are also more likely to use remote areas, uninviting to the average eco-tourist. Having these hunters there allows for anti-poaching activities and revenue for local communities findarticles.com.In the 1800s southern and central European hunters often pursued game only for a trophy, usually the head or pelt of an animal, to be displayed as a sign of prowess. The rest of the animal was often wasted. In contrast, in relatively scarcely populated northern Europe, hunting has remained the tradition of the common people, and still serves a purpose as a means of acquiring meat, although the standard of living does not require it; Eating game is generally considered a healthier and more ethical alternative to the exploitation of farmed animals. In the Nordic countries, hunting for trophies was, and still is frowned upon, but an impressive trophy is considered a bonus. This is perhaps the most common practice of modern hunters worldwide.

United Kingdom - The practice of United KingdomBritish fox huntfox hunting is a prime example of sport hunting; the fox is not eaten, and the skin is rarely preserved afterwards. Fox hunting originally developed as a means of vermin control to protect livestock. In Queen VictoriaVictorian times it also became a popular sport of the upper classes. It now attracts followers from all walks of life. Mounted followers join in on horseback and foot-followers walk or cycle, others follow by car, stopping to view the hunt from suitable vantage points. Fox hunting attract strong feelings. Some animal rights supporters feel it causes suffering to the fox and is both cruel and unnecessary. Some members of the farming and rural communities in which it takes place feel it is an integral and useful part of rural life, providing an important contribution to social life for local people.In 2002 the Scottish Parliament passed an act banning fox hunting and other forms of hunting with hounds. On September 15th 2004 the British Parliament followed Scotland's lead and passed a similar ban for England and Wales under the Hunting Act 2004, which took effect from February 18 2005. The British Government forced the ban into law using the Parliament Act. Some hunting activists have declared their intention to break the law and continue hunting with hounds.

Hunting in the United States - In the United States, hunting is a sport not associated with any particular class or culture. Today's hunters come from a broad range of economic, social, and cultural backgrounds. In 2001, over 13 million hunters averaged eighteen days hunting and spent over $20.5 billion on their sport. In the United States, hunters are encouraged to take a hunters safety course. There are many good courses taught by hunters and they teach the responsibilities of a good sportsman. On television there is a show on OLN called Hunters Handbook that shows hunting safety and new hunting products.Modern hunters see themselves as conservationists. Each year, nearly $200 million in hunters' federal excise taxes are distributed to State agencies to support wildlife management programs, the purchase of lands open to hunters, and hunter education and safety classes. Proceeds from the Federal Duck Stamp, a required purchase for migratory waterfowl hunters, have purchased more than 5 million acres (20,000 km²) of habitat for the refuge system lands that support waterfowl and many other wildlife species, and are often open to hunting. The $200 million is the federal portion only and does not include monies collected by the states for hunting licenses. Local hunting clubs and national conservation organizations protect the future of wildlife by setting aside millions of acres of habitat and speaking up for conservation in Washington and State capitals fws.gov. Two such private organizations are Ducks Unlimited ducks.org and Delta Waterfowl deltawaterfowl.org.Hunting of mammals such as deer, wapitielk and small game is regulated by the states. Hunting of migratory waterfowl (ducks, geese, and others) is regulated by the Federal government under treaties with Canada and Mexico since the birds do not recognize international political boundaries. The states usually adminster the federally-set regulations.One task of Federal and state Park_Rangerpark rangers and game wardens is to enforce laws and regulations related to hunting, included species protection, hunting seasons, and hunting bans. Hunting can be an important tool for wildlife management. Hunting gives resource managers a valuable tool to control populations of some species that might otherwise exceed the carrying capacity of their habitat and threaten the well-being of other wildlife species, and in some instances, that of human health and safety fws.gov. Hunting reduces the annual crop of new animals and birds to allow the remaining animals sufficent feed and shelter to survive.An example of using hunters in wildlife management can be found in the "Snow, Blue and Ross' Goose Conservation Order 2005." agfc.com The Conservation Order allows hunters, after all other waterfowl seasons are closed, to shoot an unlimited number of these species of geese. The reason for the Conservation Order is that these species have grown so numerous that they are destroying the artic environment which many species of animals use as breeding grounds.Many Native Americans in the United StatesNative American hunters claim subsistence hunting rights as a traditional part of their culture. In certain cases (such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act), Federal law provides protection for Native Americans. This is particularly true in Alaska, where people still feed on sea and land mammals as well as fish and birds. It is common for rural Alaska Native communities to obtain 50-90% of their daily protein from hunting.Varmint hunting is the killing of animals seen as pests and animals that are not normally considered as game species. While not an efficient form of pest control (poisoning and trapping are much more effective), it does provide recreation and is currently the fastest growing area of hunting. Varmint species are often responsible for detrimental effects on crops, livestock, landscaping, infrastructure, and pets. Animals may be utilized for fur or meat, but often no use is made of the carcass. Which species are "varmints" depends on the circumstance and area. Common varmints include various rodents, coyotes, crows, foxes, feral cats, and feral hogs. Some animals once considered varmints are now protected, such as wolfwolves. Animal management authorities sometimes rely on hunting to control certain animal populations. These hunts are sometimes carried out by professional hunters although other hunts include amateurs. Overpopulations of deer in urban parks and bears which have attacked humans might be hunted by animal management authorities.Modern hunting is done with a plethora of weapons. The three most common being:guns, bows, and muzzleloaders. Some prefer bowhunting and bowfishing, as they may consider such hunting methods more challenging.

Depiction in Popular Culture - While there are numerous hunting shows, television programs, magazines and merchandise, some popular entertainment also condemns sport hunting. This is most obvious in animation which often depicts hunting from the hunted animal's point of view and furthermore has the audience's sympathy as the animal either usually escapes or successfully defends itself. Hence, the hunter is often presented as the antagonist. This can range from the humorous such as Bugs Bunny fighting off Elmer Fudd to the dramatic as in ''Bambi''. In contrast, filmed depictions of hunting by aboriginal cultures like Native American ones are treated with much more sympathy with the implied idea that they are hunting for what they need to survive and no more. (This "implied idea" actually continues to be the case in many Alaskan Bush communities today.)tunt.blogspot.com Varmint hunting of prairie dogs is depicted in John Ross' novel "Unintended Consequences". A favorable depiction of hunting is found in L.Neil Smith's science fiction novel 'Pallas'.

See also -

Hunting horn

External links -

justinalexander.net - Ethics of Hunting - a philosophy thesis on the ethical arguments for and against hunting, including a section focusing on ChristianityChristian ethics.

surviveoutdoors.com - Hunting Safety

fws.gov - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website

fws.gov - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service statistics

tpwd.state.tx.us - Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission as an example of state agencies

booneman.com - Michigan based grassroots hunting, fishing and habitat forum

scifirstforhunters.org - Safari Club International Category:Survival skillsCategory:Blood !sportsCategory:ArcheryCategory :Hunting!*af:Jagbe:Пал ;яван& #1085;еda:Jagtde:Jagdfr: Chassehe:ציד nl:Jacht? !(activiteit)no:Jaktpt:Caçaja: 狩猟sr:Л 86;вfi:Metsästyssv:Jakt

AJ Outfitters -- Wyoming antelope and mule deer hunts
Guided rifle hunts for mule deer and antelope on private lands.
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Upland Pheasant Hunting & Trap Shooting Books
A great bookstore for trap shooters, pheasant hunters and reloaders looking for reading material. Trap shooters learn proper techniques from a professional! Whether you’re a novice or experienced shooter, these books will help you get better scores and more birds in your bag! Upland Game Hunting, pheasant, grouse, where to go and what to use. Reloading advice for the new shooter.
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Nature and wildlife tours.
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Treestand Safety and Online Sales
Tips, tricks and secrets of successful tree stand hunting.
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Meadows of Dan, Virginia
A beautiful small community at the edge of the Blue Ridge Plateau offering a charming setting, interesting shopping, friendly locals and easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
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EZY® Climb Tree Steps - The Best Screw In The Hunting Industry
Cranford Manufacturing Company, Inc. produces a variety of hunting accessories to increase your success in the field. All your tree stand hunting accessories and problem solutions . . . especially The Best Screw in the Hunting Industry, EZY® Climb Tree Steps.
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RAVENSWOOD Reg'd Kennel
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Boating Videos,Fishing Videos,Hunting Videos
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Tree Stands and Deer Blinds
The oldest manufacturer of tree stands now has direct sales to the public.
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Pack River Knife Company
Maker of custom hunting, camping, skinning, and kitchen knives.
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THunderWolf Movies, Inc.
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John D. Nesbitt, Author
Website of John D. Nesbitt, writer of western and contemporary fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and academic works.
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Hill Ranch Sport Hunting & Fishing, LLC
Hunting in the Blackbelt of west Alabama. Family friendly, good success, quail, deer, ducks, turkey, wild hogs, and more.
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Insiders Guides
Travel Guides for every destination.
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Francine Etched Knives
Fine, handmade, custom cutlery made from Boye Dendritic Steel. Kitchen, outdoor, table, hunting, and camping knives. Many with original artwork etched on the blades. Extraordinary edge holding with ease of sharpening.
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Krokstrommens Vildmarkscamp
Wildernes camp - fishing and hunting in Härjedalen, Sweden.
http://www.krokstrommen.se/

Adams Super 8 Motel
Exceptionally clean and friendly service, 37 room Super 8 Motel located in Adams Friendship Wisconsin .
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Speedy Sharp
Speedy Sharp Carbide Knife Sharpener. The world's fastest sharpener Life-time warrantee. Never wears out.
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The 4 Realities of Success During and After College
A parent and student guide to achieving suceess in college, the senior year job search, the first professional job, and preparation for independent living. Topics include goals, study skills, relationships, resumes, succeeding in the workplace, more.
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Grey Goose Lodge - Deline
Grey Goose Lodge, Deline, Northwest Territories
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Safarispain.com
Quality trophy hunts in Spain. Based in Andalucia, big game hunting and the best driven bird shooting in Spain. Current clients include HRH Juan Carlos I, King of Spain.
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The Fawkinnae Sportsman's Club
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Arizona Falconer's Association
The purpose of the Arizona Falconers' Association is to provide communication and interaction among interested members; to promote the ethical and legal pursuit of falconry as a recognized field sport; to promote the use of sound biological principles and information in the management of raptor populations and falconry; and to encourage programs of public education, scientific study and habitat conservation which advance the welfare of falconry and birds of prey.
http://www.azfalconersassoc.org/

Jemez Springs, New Mexico
Jemez Springs, New Mexico is a perfect weekend get-away from Albuquerque and Santa Fe. It features natural mineral hot springs, great fishing spots, and endless hiking trails. A place of great natural beauty and rich history. Over 3 million visitors a year pass through this unique scenic by-way.
http://www.jemezsprings.org

Al's Sporting Goods
Utah's oldest and most diverse sporting goods store.
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Big Five Headquarters
Offering Safari Rifles, Accessories, and Hunting Safaris to Africa and Argentina for Plains and Dangerous Game
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Thee Cutlery
Premium quality kitchen cutlery from Germany and Japan. A broad selection of outdoor, sporting and general purpose fixed and folding blade knives. We stock popular modeld from many manufacturers and offer a very fine sharpening service.
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Fishing Books and Video
Find hundreds of discount fishing books, videos, magazines and more at sale prices.
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Trysil og Engerdal Utmarksråd
Naturopplevelser i Trysil og Engerdal. Vi formidler utleiehytter, jakt, fiske og friluftsaktiviteter.
http://www.teur.no/

Fishing in Iceland rivers for salmon, trout and sea trout
Fishing in Iceland rivers for salmon, trout sea trout and arctic char. Salmon fishing in Iceland is a unforgetable adventure
http://www.salmon-club.com/

Moritzburg Festival
Founded in 1993, the Moritzburg Festival, artistic director cellist Jan Vogler, belongs internationally to the most significant chamber music festivals. Each year in August, renowned soloists and promising young musicians from all over the world create a music spotlight on Moritzburg. The unique concept of the festival combines concerts at the baroque Moritzburg Castle, the local church of Moritzburg, the Proschwitz Wine Estate, the Dresden Frauenkirche and the Transparent Manufactory of Volkswagen in Dresden as well as Gala-Evenings, solo recitals, composer's lectures, and the Moritzburg Festival Academy. The dynamic and vital character of the Moritzburg Festival attracts numerous visitors from Germany and abroad. Artists of the festival appear throughout the year as “Moritzburg Festival on Tour” in the major music centres of Europe and the United States. The next year’s Moritzburg Festival will take place from August 3 to 19, 2007. For further information please visit www.moritzburgfestival.de
http://www.moritzburgfestival.de/

World Wide Hunting Videos
Hunting, Boating, Fishing, Military History, Athletes/Coaches, GPS and Radar Videos. DVDs & VHS. Everything Outdors with over 1000 Titles of “How to” videos to choose from at great prices!
http://www.hunting-fishing-videos.com

Wildlife Memories
Video Productions, Taxidermy and Bowhunting Professional. Specialize in preserving Wildlife Memories, so get the family involved and Do It Outdoors!
http://www.wildlifememories.com/

The Outdoors Experience
The Outdoors Experience is a radio show that broadcasts live out of Chicago, every Saturday morning from 8 to 9 on NewsTalk 560-AM WIND and is hosted by Steve Sarley
http://www.oexperience.com/

The Hunting.Network
News, polls, forums, classifieds and recommended hunting sites.
http://www.hunting.net/

Lycos, Inc.
Develops and provides guides to find, index and filter information on the internet and the world wide web. (Nasdaq: LCOS).
http://www.lycos.com/

Fishing-Hunting.com
Includes hunting and fishing articles, photos, information, and links.
http://www.fishing-hunting.com/