Proposals to increase protection for several huntable bird species have been set out by the UK, Scottish and Welsh governments, with a joint consultation launched under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
The changes would restrict the shooting of species including woodcock, pintail, goldeneye and pochard, all of which have seen notable population declines in recent years. The proposals also include a full prohibition on the recreational shooting of the european white-fronted goose.
The consultation follows what the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs describes as a science-led review of species listed under Schedule 2.1, aimed at aligning legislation with current population trends. Several of the species under consideration are now classed as being under threat, with some native populations significantly reduced.
While the proposals would introduce tighter controls, they also underline the increasing role of evidence-led wildlife management and the need for the sector to remain actively engaged in shaping proportionate regulation. For the trade, the outcome could have implications for demand across certain game and wildfowling categories.
Nature minister Mary Creagh said: “The woodcock, pochard, goldeneye, and pintail ducks are all iconic national birds. Their rapid decline is deeply concerning and it is our job to ensure they are properly protected for future generations to cherish. This government is committed to protecting wildlife and improving animal welfare.”
Dr Conor O’Gorman, BASC’s head of policy and campaigns said: “If we don’t take action there could be a ban or reduced shooting season for pochard, European white-fronted goose, goldeneye, pintail, common snipe, woodcock, coot and golden plover.
“These threats need to be challenged, but on the other hand there is also an opportunity to get many species onto the quarry lists including brent goose, carrion crow, cormorant, Egyptian goose, goosander, great black-backed gull, herring gull, jack snipe, jackdaw, jay, lesser black-backed gull, magpie, mandarin duck, monk parakeet, raven, ring-necked parakeet, ruddy duck, stock dove and woodpigeon.
“Let’s mobilise and start getting thousands of responses into the consultation, starting today.”
Alongside the proposed restrictions, the consultation also considers adding woodpigeon to the relevant schedule of the Act, which would allow for the introduction of a close season during its breeding period. Woodpigeon are widely managed across the UK to prevent crop damage, and any changes would need to balance animal welfare considerations with practical land management.
The UK and Scottish governments are also considering extending the close season for common snipe, preventing shooting during the breeding period.
For the shooting industry, the consultation highlights both potential restrictions and opportunities, reinforcing the importance of engaging with the process to ensure that future legislation reflects both conservation priorities and the practical realities of sustainable shooting.