It has again been made evidently clear that legal hunting, and genuine hunters’ presence in the countryside, is the best deterrent against illegal shooting of protected bird species, the hunters' federation said this evening.

In a statement it said that in the first two days of September, which also marked the opening of this autumn’s season, produced a good influx of migrating protected bird species, including raptors and herons.Contrary to the deplorable single incidents of illegal shooting of protected bird species perpetrated by poachers reported recently during the closed season, not one incident of illegal shooting on protected birds species was reported during the season, the FKNK said.It applauded the efforts of its members to attain this scenario.

The federation again warned members it would not tolerate illegalities.

"The FKNK will take drastic disciplinary action, within its power, against any member who may be found in serious breach of the relative regulations, to the point of membership revocation, without which, hunting licence renewal is not permissible.

"Furthermore, the FKNK instigates its thousands of members who abide by current regulations to do their utmost to ensure that any person, responsible for any criminal act related to shooting, be brought to justice."

It urged members to assist the Police in their duties and to report any illegalities they may observe from their fields to the police on 2122 4001.

Such reports can be made anonymously by any FKNK member as well as the public.

"This is the only way forward for hunting to regain the accepted social status it enjoyed not so long ago," the FKNK said.