African swine fever in the wild: opinion and practices of hunters from Russia and other countries

The article analyzes the role of the hunting community in controlling African swine fever (ASF) in the wild. It pre-sents the results of an anonymous online survey of Russian hunters (n = 238) from regions with a high risk of ASF introduc-tion (Samara, Saratov, Nizhny Novgorod, Vladimir regions) to assess their awareness, biosecurity practices, attitudes towards control measures, and the level of interagency collaboration. The typical respondent profile is an experienced hunter (43.7 % with over 20 years of experience) aged 41–55 (48.3 %), with a moderate level of ASF awareness (50.4 %). Critical gaps were identified: only 49.2 % of respondents always perform disinfection, and 12.2 % leave slaughter waste without proper disposal; there is a low level of satisfaction with interaction with the state veterinary service (63.4 %) and rejection of measures involv-ing hunting restrictions (60.5 %). A comparative analysis with data from hunter surveys in European countries (Latvia, Lith-uania, Sweden, Kosovo (as per United Nations Security Council resolution 1244), Montenegro, Serbia, Hungary, Estonia, and Germany) revealed common systemic problems: a communication gap and mutual distrust between hunters and state authori-ties; rejection of hunting ban measures; shifting the blame for ASF spread to pig farms and anthropogenic factors. The conclusion emphasizes the need for implementing an interdisciplinary approach ("One Health"), improving interagency communication, and targeted educational work.

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