lans to ban using snares in Scotland have been hailed as “excellent news” by TV presenter and campaigner Chris Packham.
Packham, a number one conservationist, spoke out after the Scottish Government launched a brand new session, asking if an outright ban on the units ought to be introduced in, or if any exemptions could possibly be thought-about.
Ministers are additionally searching for the general public’s view on extending the investigative powers of the Scottish SPCA to assist deal with wildlife crime, with proposals to provide inspectors extra authority to go looking, study and seize proof linked to unlawful searching and different offences.
The Scottish surroundings minister Gillian Martin mentioned snare traps might “lead to unnecessary suffering for animals” with the proposed ban on their use “part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that wildlife management is both sustainable and humane”.
Ms Martin mentioned: “Currently, only a small number of farmers and land managers use snare traps. More effective and humane forms of managing wildlife are available and we will continue to support the industry to make use of these methods.”
Packham, patron of the animal welfare charity OneKind, described the transfer as “excellent news, and a potential win for wildlife”.
He added: “These torture devices ought to have been banned a long time ago and I’m glad that the Scottish Government has finally recognised snares for the unacceptably cruel traps that they are.”
With the session in Scotland following on from a vote within the Senedd in Wales to ban using snares, he added: “The UK Government must not lag behind.”
OneKind director Bob Elliot mentioned: “We are delighted that today the Scottish Government has finally announced their intention to consign snares to Scotland’s history books.
“The regulation of snares has failed to protect animals from the extreme physical and mental suffering caused by these archaic devices.
“Furthermore, 76% of the Scottish public support a snaring ban on the use and sale of snares. We are pleased that the Scottish Government has listened to the voices of Scotland’s people.”
Mr Elliot added: “By proposing a snaring ban, the Scottish Government is helping send a message that wild animals deserve protection.”
But he insisted: “Nothing short of a full ban will put an end to the suffering inflicted by snares.
“We urge the Scottish Government to make this ban watertight and not consider any exceptions to it.”
Scottish SPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn mentioned the society had “long called for an outright ban on the use of snares due to the level of suffering an animal is caused”.
Mr Flynn mentioned: “Animals that are caught in snares can be caused unimaginable physical and mental anguish. Following reports from members of the public, we have found domestic animals, protected species and target animals that have all suffered dreadfully in both illegal and legal snares.
“A ban on all snaring is the only way to stop this unacceptable suffering. We are very pleased with the announcement of a ban, which will be a historic moment for animal welfare in Scotland.”
Gamekeepers mentioned they too supported a ban, proposing that newer, extra humane holding units “which represent a step-change in animal welfare” ought to be used as a substitute of snares.
Scottish Gamekeepers Association chairman Alex Hogg mentioned it beneficial these ought to be utilized by legally skilled operators solely.
He defined such units “contain added features which take account of fox welfare” and allow animals which aren't the targets – akin to badgers and deer – to “trigger a break-away” and free themselves.
While Mr Hogg mentioned just a few estates have been utilizing these, all those who have had “reported a step-change for welfare”.
He said: “We feel these new devices strike exactly the right balance between animal welfare and the needs of land managers, in a rural country, to be able to legally control fox numbers to prevent serious damage to livestock and ground-nesting birds of special conservation concern.”
The Scottish Government session will run for six weeks till October 3.
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