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Has The Wildfowling ban Been Lifted In Scotland?


Swamp Beast
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BASC Say......

 

Severe Weather

***UPDATE*** 18th January 2010

 

In Scotland a statutory suspension of shooting ducks, geese and waders is to be lifted at midnight on Monday 18th January, allowing shooting from Tuesday 19th January. BASC has advised the Scottish Government that the expected days of thaw should be enough to allow birds to recover from the cold spell.

 

A similar statutory suspension covering Northern Ireland is due to be lifted at 8am on Wednesday 20th January.

 

In Northern Ireland species listed in Schedule 1 (Part 2) and Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Order are covered by the statutory suspension. They include ducks, geese, golden plover and curlew. Common snipe, jack snipe and woodcock, however, are covered by game legislation rather than the Wildlife Order and as this would have required a 21-day period of consultation before a Special Protection Order could be introduced, the Department hasn't opted to bring in specific protection measures. However, recognising that these species can be adversely affected by prolonged severe weather BASC urges all shooters to give them the freedom of disturbance that they need while the statutory suspension for the other waterfowl species is in place.

 

England and Wales are not currently classified as being in a severe weather situation and there is no prospect of a statutory ban. However, Local conditions, including snow cover and frozen ground can make feeding and roosting difficult. Where these conditions persist, restraint should be exercised.

 

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Many of BASC's affiliated wildfowling clubs and shooting syndicates have been sent a form on which to record sightings or other evidence of waterfowl suffering from the effects of the severe weather. Although the weather seems generally to be improving members are asked to continue reporting on such forms for as long as the frost and snow last since they give a valuable insight into how birds respond to such conditions and recover from any ill-effects

 

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The purpose of the suspension of shooting these species is to provide waterfowl with extra protection and minimum disturbance during prolonged cold spells, which make feeding and conserving energy difficult for the birds. BASC also urges all other users of wetland areas such as dog walkers, bird watchers and walkers to do what they can to minimise disturbance until conditions improve.

 

Please also check this website for updates on the situation, and encourage other shooters to do so as well.

 

BASC will be working with JNCC and others to monitor the weather and its effects on waterfowl. When conditions become severe and shooting restrictions seem necessary you will be able find updates here on our web page. More information can be found by clicking on the links below.

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