Natural England has launched a consultation on proposed changes to the species listed on wildlife general licences but this will not affect the renewals due on 1 January 2009.
In the coming months the consultation will generate discussion on the control of certain bird species in England, including Canada and Egyptian Geese and Monk and Ring-necked parakeets.
Of particular concern for the managers of breeding populations of grey partridge and grouse may be the proposed removal of Great Black-backed gull and Herring gull from the majority of general licences.
BASC’s Dr Conor O’Gorman said: “General licences are a vital legislative tool for wildlife managers. It means that the control of problem species can be tackled in a timely fashion by shooting and trapping with the minimum of bureaucracy. It is helpful that the consultation does not affect the 2009 renewals. BASC will engage fully in this consultation and welcomes views from its members on the content in developing our response, especially in relation to the proposals on Black-backed gull and Herring gull”
ENDS