The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Estates eradicating hares on an epic scale
Sir , – Yet again the grouse shooting industry has been found out with recent footage of our iconic mountain hares being systematically shot by a brigade of “guardians of the uplands” and the resultant public outrage.
It may come as a surprise to many people that this practice is commonplace on estates throughout Scotland, even in our National Parks.
This is not an exercise in population control, this is eradication on an epic scale.
What is more breathtaking is that one of the reasons put forward by the grouse estates propagandists is that they overgraze the uplands.
Really! Do they munch more of the vegetation than the herds of deer or the countless sheep sharing the same hillside?
Also it is no surprise to many of us who are aware of the dubious practices of these estates that by ridding your hills of mountain hares you are deliberately removing the main food source of another Scottish icon – the golden eagle.
The Scottish First Minister voiced her disgust on this matter and there was a groundswell of support for action from MSPs.
It is hoped that this will spur the environment minister to introduce strong and effective legislation to put an end to this unnecessary carnage.
In recent years some Angus glens have become devoid of red deer, mountain hares cling on in some, and on a good day you might spot a bird of prey.
Hardly the rich biodiversity that Scotland and its people deserve.
David Mitchell. 6 Henry Street, Kirriemuir.