A recent incident in Venice has unveiled a scandal involving Donald Trump Jr. that has fueled outrage amongst Italian lawmakers and environmental activists. The uproar originated when a video surfaced showing Trump Jr., equipped in hunting gear, alongside a pile of dead ducks in the lagoon, including a species that is legally protected.
Trump Jr. Sparks Outrage in Italy Over Hunting Protected Duck

Trump Jr. Sparks Outrage in Italy Over Hunting Protected Duck
Donald Trump Jr.'s recent hunting activities in Italy's Venice lagoon have ignited controversy, leading to calls for accountability from lawmakers and environmental activists.
On February 4, 2025, the clip was disseminated, drawing sharp criticism from political figures in Italy. Lawmakers characterized the act as both morally reprehensible and illegal. “It is morally despicable,” declared Luana Zanella, a member of Italy’s parliament, condemning the actions of the president's son as criminal.
The offending video, which was first shared with The New York Times, depicted Trump Jr. hiding in tall grass and discussing the ducks he had hunted while an action movie soundtrack played in the background. One clip specifically highlighted a unique copper-colored duck that Trump Jr. failed to identify, leading to further outrage when regional lawmakers, such as Andrea Zanoni, clarified that the bird in question is a ruddy shelduck, which is off-limits for hunters in Italy.
Italy's laws protect wildlife, and hunting endangered or protected species can lead to severe repercussions. Consequently, the outcry around Trump Jr.'s activities has prompted discussions on enforcing wildlife protection regulations in the aftermath of this incident.
The offending video, which was first shared with The New York Times, depicted Trump Jr. hiding in tall grass and discussing the ducks he had hunted while an action movie soundtrack played in the background. One clip specifically highlighted a unique copper-colored duck that Trump Jr. failed to identify, leading to further outrage when regional lawmakers, such as Andrea Zanoni, clarified that the bird in question is a ruddy shelduck, which is off-limits for hunters in Italy.
Italy's laws protect wildlife, and hunting endangered or protected species can lead to severe repercussions. Consequently, the outcry around Trump Jr.'s activities has prompted discussions on enforcing wildlife protection regulations in the aftermath of this incident.