For the unsuspecting observer, it is a great picture. Young foxes are now playing in front of the den, playfully wrestling with each other and exploring the immediate surroundings. However, for the conservationist in the small game territory, the supposed idyll looks completely different. It is not about exterminating the fox, but it must be our common goal to keep the predator population as small as possible. By the way, not only we hunters know about the necessity of hunting, but also the local conservation organizations. Especially where rare ground-nesting birds can still be found, there is no other alternative. Those who missed the hunting season before the rut must now make up for lost time in hunting young foxes - whether with traps, shotguns, or rifles.

 Whether I should proudly report with pictures of my kills about the young fox hunting on social media networks is something everyone can quickly answer for themselves. Not every user understands the background or engages with the associated information.

Whereas they were recently visible everywhere, the older roe bucks become significantly more secretive in June. Whether I spare them until the leaf time or intervene decisively can only be decided by the knowledgeable hunter on site. Even though legal frameworks for hunting roe deer have changed, it is about the right measure. The newly born fawns are already quick on their feet and are often seen with the doe. This sight is the reward for dedicated fawn rescuers.

While in the big game territory the stags are now flaunting their velvet antlers, in the small game territory it is the field hares that bring us joy. The young ones that have now been born have a significantly better chance of survival in good weather than those born in the usually wet and cold March. Even if not every hare will see the autumn, there is a first opportunity to get an overview of the population increase. An overview is a prerequisite for a hare hunt in winter, if it takes place at all.

Wherever wild boars cause damage, it gets stressful in the field territory. Only those who react early can prevent serious problems here. Caution is still advised with adult sows, as the piglets still need the guidance of the sow.