Severe weather in Scotland triggers call for voluntary shooting restraint

Due to continuing adverse weather, BASC is calling for all shooters in Scotland to exercise extra voluntary restraint in their shooting of ducks, geese and waders including woodcock, snipe, and reared mallard.

Today is day eight of the current spell of wintry weather. Under agreed procedures for managing the shooting of certain bird species, this is the point at which a cautionary warning is issued. The decision to show restraint in shooting should be made by individuals and be based on local conditions. Further guidance is available on the BASC website www.basc.org.uk

If the weather conditions persist for another five days in Scotland then it is possible that a decision will be taken by the Government to impose a statutory suspension of waterfowl shooting which would last for up to 14 days.

BASC Scotland Director, Dr. Colin Shedden, said: "Individuals, clubs and syndicates should consider their local conditions and be on the lookout for unusual bird movements or birds in poor condition and take their decisions on shooting accordingly while the poor weather persists."

Unless local conditions require it, there is currently no call for extra restraint in England and Wales.