Fox Hunting

Warning: Distressing Images and Content

What is Fox Hunting?

The tracking, chasing, hunting, usually on horseback, but also by foot and ultimately killing a fox with dogs.

Photo Credits: ICAB – Irish Council Against Blood Sports

When Does Fox Hunting Occur?

Typically from November until April.

Is Fox Hunting Legal in Ireland?

Fox hunting is legal in Ireland.

The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 prohibits cruelty to a protected animal, however, this excludes: “lawfully hunting an animal, unless the animal is released in an injured, mutilated or exhausted condition”.

Foxes are not ‘protected animals’ under The Wildlife Act, 1976.

According to the National Parks and Wildlife Service:

“It is not possible to issue a licence to hunt unprotected animals, such as foxes and rabbits using a mechanically propelled vehicle except for ‘Educational, Scientific or other Purposes’. However you are free to hunt unprotected animals, such as foxes and rabbits, including at night using lamps subject to landowner permission being obtained prior to entering on lands. However no such hunting can be carried out during the day or at night using a mechanically propelled vehicle.”

Fox hunting has been banned in England, Scotland and Wales.

Animals Involved in Fox Hunting

• Foxes
• Horses
• Foxhound Dogs – to track, chase and kill foxes
• Terrier Dogs – used to bolt the fox out of a hole and kill foxes

Useful Links

Organisations Lobbying to Ban Fox Hunting

• NARA (National Animal Rights Association)
• Irish Council Against Blood Sports (ICABS)

Organisations Involved in Fox Hunting

According to NARA, there are 42 registered foxhound packs in Ireland.

• The Irish Masters of Foxhounds Association
• The Hunting Association of Ireland
• Irish Working Terrier Association

Take Action

If you want to see a ban on fox hunting:

1. Learn about the Social Democrats’ bill to ban fox hunting.
   In order for this bill to succeed, it needs the support of government parties and larger parties in opposition, such as Sinn Féin. Learn why Sinn Féin opposed the bill at Stage 1.
2. Contact your local representatives before the middle of December 2025, asking them to support the bill to ban fox hunting.

Find out other ways you can take action.