Q&A

Why the fuss?

Shooting wild birds is normally illegal in the UK. But every January, Natural England grants ‘ general licences’ allowing the shooting of 16 species to prevent damage to crops; to preserve public health or safety; and to conserve other wildlife. They are called ‘general’ because there is no need to apply.

What birds did the licences cover?

Members of the crow family – crows, magpies, rooks, jackdaws and jays – feral and wood pigeon and invasive non-native species (such as Canada geese).

What’s changed?

Conservation group Wild Justice led a legal challenge, saying that under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, those shooting wild birds must show there was no alternative to lethal control. Natural England accepted this view.

What’s the effect?

Those trying to control wild birds could find they are liable to prosecution. There is now only one species covered by the ‘general’ licence – carrion crows. Natural England said new licences for other birds will be issued in the coming days and weeks.

Why is the change so controversial?

Quite apart from losing their ability to control pest species, farmers and gamekeepers were left in chaos because Natural England announced changes to the rules with just 36 hours’ notice.

How many people are affected?

There may be at least 50,000 who rely on general licences, including far mers, gamekeepers, pest controllers, councils and conservation groups.