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The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change’s Wildlife Protection Department in co-operation with the Environmental Security Unit of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) has carried out an extensive inspection campaign in the southern regions of the country aimed at reducing environmental violations regarding the use of bird-attracting devices.The campaign resulted in the seizure of around 474 bird-attracting devices (sound lures), and the necessary legal measures were taken in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations in this regard. The ministry stressed the importance of adhering to environmental laws and regulations and refraining from using methods that harm wildlife and biodiversity. It also noted that the campaign is ongoing as part of its efforts to protect Qatar’s environment and preserve its natural components.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has announced the issuance of Ministerial Decision No 26 of 2025 regarding the regulation of the hunting season for birds and wildlife.The decision sets the conditions and controls for practicing hunting, as part of the Ministry’s efforts to protect biodiversity and ensure the sustainability of wildlife in the country. Under the decision, the migratory bird (Al-Laffo) hunting season begins on September 1 and continues until February 15 of each year, for a period of two years from the date it comes into effect.The decision stipulates that hunting the houbara bustard is only permitted using falcons, while the use or trade of non-traditional hunting tools and means is strictly prohibited, particularly electronic devices that emit bird-like sounds (calling devices).The decision also stressed the necessity of avoiding causing harm to bird eggs or nests, and refraining from damaging wild plants. Hunting is allowed only from sunrise to sunset. The sale, trade, or circulation of hunted birds is prohibited. Further, hunting is banned in the certain locations that include: within nature reserves, islands, artificial lakes, inside cities and villages, public parks, within 500 meters of public roads, and on private properties and farms unless the owners and right-holders have granted permission for this.The decision included a list of species permitted to be hunted during the two-year period (2025–2026), including: houbara bustard, stone curlew, mallard (wild duck), blue rock thrush, song thrush, common chiffchaff, greater hoopoe lark, desert wheatear, Isabelline wheatear, and northern wheatear.Besides, Article Three of the decision prohibits the hunting or possession of any local and resident wildlife species, as well as other migratory species, across all parts of Qatar throughout the year, for two years from the date the decision takes effect. These species include: hare, ostrich, gazelle, honey badger, jerboa, hedgehog, shrike, crested lark, warbler, Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex), red-tailed wheatear, cream-colored courser, spiny-tailed lizard (dhub), and monitor lizard.Accordingly, the Ministry stressed that any violation of this decision will subject the offender to the penalties stipulated in Law No 4 of 2002 Promulgating the Law of the Environment Protection. The Ministry urged all to abide by the standard regulations and guidelines to safeguard wildlife and preserve natural resources for future generations.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change's Department of Wildlife Protection has carried out a comprehensive cleanup campaign in the central region, covering Rawdat Muaither Al-Darb, Al-Riffa, and north of the Abu Nakhla complex, as part of its ongoing project covering meadows and wild areas across the country. The campaign aims to preserve the natural environment and protect the green cover, contributing to the promotion of environmental sustainability and allowing visitors to enjoy nature in clean and safe surroundings. The ministry stressed that these initiatives are part of its continuous efforts to protect the environment and to reduce harmful practices that negatively impact the ecosystem in these places. It pointed out that its field teams regularly monitor and implement awareness and cleaning programmes. The ministry called on all visitors to wild areas and Rawdats to maintain cleanliness by refraining from leaving waste behind, and to dispose of their waste in the designated containers to help preserve the beauty of nature and protect wildlife.