Kinlochleven deer cull is paused as uproar engulfs community
Jahama Highland Estates has confirmed that the controversial deer culling operation which began in Kinlochleven last week will remain paused for the time being.
There was anger from a number of villagers last week when a specialist marksman turned up in the early hours of Saturday January 29, and started shooting deer, which have been entering the village.
Many residents claimed they had received no prior warning and had been alarmed by the sound of gunshots close to their homes during the hours of darkness.
There has also been considerable opposition to the culling generally, for which licences were granted by NatureScot to Jahama and Kinlochleven
Community Trust (KCT). Jahama told the Lochaber Times on Monday of this week: ‘The culling remains paused.’
However, NatureScot told the Lochaber Times last week that, despite advice to people to stop feeding deer in the area, the practice had continued leading to many of these wild animals losing their fear of humans.
‘As a result, many residents have complained directly to us that deer are posing a danger to public safety in the village and causing significant damage to property and gardens,’ NatureScot said.
‘For public safety reasons, NatureScot issued licences for night and out-of-season shooting to allow these animals to be removed by a trained marksman with detailed local knowledge, after discussion with partners including community representatives.’
Local councillor Sarah Fanet told us: ‘From the information I have obtained so far, this is part of a deer management programme.
‘It is conducted by a licensed and authorised team of experts working with local governmental and national bodies. This is a complex policy area where wildlife, conservation and public safety are pertinent.
‘The residents who have raised concerns have been heard and I am grateful that the Jahama Estate and NatureScot have decided to pause deer control in Kinlochleven. I hope this will give time for those residents to find the reassurance they have been seeking. Meanwhile, still in the interest of public safety, I urge everyone in Kinlochleven to follow the clear and unambiguous advice issued by experts and not feed the deer in the village.’
Asked if any of last week’s shooting had taken place on land or roadways owned by Highland Council (HC) as landowner, the local authority said it understood the correct permissions were in place for the land owned by Jahama Estates and KCT.
The spokesperson added: ‘There does not appear to have been any intention to cull deer on HC land. To our knowledge, the council was not approached to give permission. We do not have confirmation if Highland Council land has been involved.’