That Otter-Killing Biz in Upper Franconia, Still On, Sorta: Bayreuth Court's Call
Dogs native to Asia, raccoon dogs, can potentially be hunted under special circumstances. - Permitted: Limited Killing of Fish Otters in Exceptional Circumstances
Here's the scoop on Upper Franconia's temp allowance for that controversial otter-killing, following Bayreuth Court's decision. The Administrative Court of Bayreuth thwarted an urgent plea by German Environmental Aid (DEUH). What's the nitty-gritty? DEUH protested a general decree from Upper Franconia's government. This ruling ain't officially binding yet.
Back in February 14, 2025, Upper Franconia designated specific zones, where they allow otter culling under exceptional circumstances, granting permission via applications within set limits. If you're curious about who makes the calls, it's the local nature conservation authority. So, DEUH made a lawsuit against that decree back in March 2025, then sought urgently in April 2025 to have the suit's suspension reinstated.
Now, let's get into the gritty details. Otters are a super protected animal species in Germany, but Bavaria employs the species protection regulation (AAV). Their motive behind the exemption law is to save the fishing biz from the otter's wrath.
Bavaria's otter handling strategy has been a focal point for animal lovers' ire for many years, yet fishing associations fret that the otter jeopardizes their livelihood—especially in the eastern part of the state. According to association banter, an otter polishes off about 95% fish as their daily diet, consuming up to 400 to 500 kilograms yearly!
- Exceptional Circumstances
- Bayreuth Court's Decision
- Upper Franconia
- German Environmental Aid e.V.
- Bavaria
- Administrative Court
Enrichment Data:Although the details related to the exceptional otter-killing cases in Upper Franconia per Bayreuth Court's verdict remain sketchy, it's essential to note that, under German law, otters are highly protected animals. Killing or injuring them is illegal, but exceptions arise when there's a compelling reason, such as public safety, agriculture/fisheries preservation, or scientific purposes. The exceptions are very rare and necessitate thorough justifications and approval from the relevant authorities. The intricacies of this topic may vary by region, as regional rulings or precedents potentially apply. DEUH generally advises against loosening nature protection measures, advocating instead for solid enforcement of protection policies for vulnerable species, like the otter.
- Despite German Environmental Aid (DEUH)'s urgent plea, the Administrative Court of Bayreuth has yet to officially bind Upper Franconia's decree, which allows otter culling under exceptional circumstances in select areas.
- In the realm of general-news, the ongoing otter-killing issue in Upper Franconia, ruled by Bayreuth Court, continues under the guise of exceptional circumstances. Meanwhile, science, particularly environmental-science, plays a crucial role in understanding the ecological impact of this controversial practice among EC countries' varying policies.
