Hunting primarily serves to maintain and preserve a healthy and species-rich wild animal population. It also aims to protect the game and to secure and maintain its livelihood.

Together with the Supreme Veterinary Authority, special attention is also paid to protection against game diseases. At the request of the veterinary authorities, blood samples are taken from wild boar for testing for swine fever and brucellosis. Foxes are also regularly sent 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. In the Free State of Thuringia, the Supreme Hunting Authority is also responsible for this.