Severe Weather and Shooting

21 January 2010

With severe weather now largely in the past, the temporary suspensions of wildfowl and wader shooting that were in place recently in Scotland and Northern Ireland have all been lifted.

Shooters should be aware that some species, such as woodcock, may still be recovering from the harsh spell and if birds do not look strong, restraint when shooting should be practised where appropriate.

Extending the Game Seasons?

Members have asked whether the game shooting seasons could be extended this year to compensate for days lost to hard weather. The answer is no. There is no possible legal mechanism for doing this short of an Act of Parliament.