The Government has confirmed that Fiji’s pigeon shooting season will not open this year following environmental, scientific and legal advice concerning the protection of indigenous pigeon species.
In a statement, Tomasi Tunabuna said the decision was made after technical advice from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change raised concerns about the sustainability and legality of the annual hunting season.
“The Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry advises the public that this year’s pigeon shooting season will not open following technical, environmental, and legal advice received from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change,” Tunabuna said.
He said the Government must ensure that activities involving Fiji’s indigenous wildlife are managed in accordance with national laws and environmental obligations.
“The Ministry recognizes the responsibility to ensure that activities involving Fiji’s indigenous wildlife species are undertaken in accordance with the laws of Fiji and guided by sound environmental, scientific, and conservation considerations,” he stated.
The Environment Ministry advised that the Barking Pigeon, White-throated Pigeon and Pacific Pigeon are protected indigenous species listed under Fiji’s Endangered and Protected Species Act 2002.
According to Tunabuna, the advice highlighted the lack of updated scientific population assessments needed to determine whether pigeon harvesting levels remain sustainable.
The Ministry also raised concerns over monitoring and enforcement challenges, especially in remote maritime areas, along with broader risks to Fiji’s biodiversity.
Tunabuna said recent cyclones and climate-related impacts may have further affected pigeon populations and their habitats.
“Damage caused by recent tropical cyclones may have impacted forest ecosystems, nesting sites, breeding areas, and natural food sources relied upon by indigenous pigeon species,” he said.
The Minister noted that this was not the first time the pigeon shooting season had been suspended due to environmental concerns.
“At this stage, based on the advice received, the proposed 2026 pigeon shooting season is not supported and will not take place, pending further scientific assessments, legal compliance considerations, and broader Government consultations,” Tunabuna confirmed.
He added that Government agencies would continue consultations and assess future options in line with scientific evidence, environmental management practices and Fiji’s biodiversity commitments.
