The 2026 pigeon shooting season will not go ahead after the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry received technical, environmental and legal advice warning that the indigenous pigeon species linked to the annual hunting season are protected under Fiji law.
The pigeon shooting season is typically from late May to mid-June.
In a statement, Minister for Agriculture Tomasi Tunabuna says the decision follows formal advice from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change that the Barking Pigeon, White-throated Pigeon and Pacific Pigeon are protected indigenous species listed under Schedule 2 of the Endangered and Protected Species Act 2002.
Tunabuna says activities involving the harvesting, possession, transport or use of these species require strict legal compliance, including permits and approvals under the Act.
The Ministry of Environment also raised concerns about the lack of updated scientific population assessments to determine sustainable harvesting levels, as well as monitoring and enforcement challenges, particularly in remote and maritime areas.
They warn that unsustainable harvesting practices could pose risks to Fiji’s biodiversity and other protected bird species.
Tunabuna says that recent extreme weather events and the growing impacts of climate change may also have affected pigeon populations and their habitats, including nesting sites, breeding areas and food sources damaged by tropical cyclones.
Pigeon shooting season in Fiji is traditionally observed between April and June and is regarded by some communities as a recreational activity with social and cultural significance.
However, the Minister says this is not the first time the season has been suspended, noting previous cancellations due to environmental conditions and natural disasters affecting pigeon populations.
He says the proposed 2026 season is not supported at this stage and will remain closed pending further scientific assessments, legal compliance considerations and broader consultations across Government agencies.
