Hunting primarily serves the care and maintenance of a healthy and species-rich wild animal population. It also aims to protect game and safeguard and maintain its livelihood.

Together with the Supreme Veterinary Authority, special attention is also paid to the protection against game diseases. For example, at the request of the veterinary authorities, blood samples are obtained from wild boar for testing for swine fever and brucellosis. Foxes are also regularly sent in for examination to check the status of the "rabies-free region".

Under the Federal Game Protection Ordinance, some game species are subject to special protection. The Supreme Hunting Authority is also responsible for this in the Free State of Thuringia.