What is the term used for the illegal taking of game?

Poaching refers specifically to the illegal taking of game or fish, typically in violation of laws and regulations designed to protect wildlife populations and habitats. This activity undermines conservation efforts and can lead to significant ecological damage, as it often targets species that are endangered or not in abundance.

While hunting, fishing, and trapping are all legal activities when done in accordance with the law, poaching is characterized by the disregard for these laws, often involving taking more than the legal limit, hunting out of season, or targeting protected species. The term is crucial for understanding the importance of adhering to wildlife laws, which are in place to ensure sustainable populations and healthy ecosystems.