From the 1st March 2005, there will be changes to the general licences which permit the control of certain species of birds in England. Sparrows and starlings will be removed from general licence, whilst Canada geese will be added. The provision for Canada geese will apply only in the close season for this species. Bird pest control otherwise remains mostly unchanged but some alterations will be made to the conditions. These are largely technical and are designed to ensure that the general licences are seen to fully meet the requirements of European law.
John Swift, BASC chief executive, said “
These changes follow considerable discussion in Europe and consultation in England. They are designed to ensure that English general licence arrangements continue to comply with the European laws which permit necessary pest control here at home”.
From March 1st it will become possible to control Canada geese outside the main shooting season for the purposes stated on the general licence: “for the purpose of preventing the spread of disease and for preventing serious damage to livestock, foodstuffs for livestock, crops, vegetables, fruit, growing timber, fisheries or inland waters” and “for the purpose of preserving public health and safety”. It will not be necessary for individuals to apply for special local licences or to hold copies of the general licences. Anyone shooting listed pest species under general licence must still comply with the relevant terms and conditions.
Sporting shooting alone is not a reason for control according to the conditions. If challenged, the individual would have to show that any shooting of Canada geese or other species was carried out in accordance with the terms of the appropriate general licence.
Cage traps, such as the commonly used Larsen live-catch trap will have to be inspected at least once every 24 hours, and only crow, jackdaw, jay, magpie and rook may be used as decoy birds.
Tim Russell, director of conservation at BASC said “
Defra has steered a sensible course through a comprehensive review and appears to have simplified and streamlined the system. Sparrows and starlings have been removed for conservation reasons, but may still be controlled where they pose a problem and where a specific licence has been applied for and granted. Canada geese cause problems for agriculture and public health and their addition to the general licence system is a rational move. We will monitor the effectiveness and consequences of the changes and offer advice to those who experience problems. We will be particularly alert to instances of inappropriate interpretation and application of the licence terms. Where they occur we will take them up robustly with the appropriate authority.”
It is considered likely that the relevant authorities in Scotland and Wales will introduce similar changes later this year.
The general licences can be viewed by
clicking here.
Original article on BASC web site
Click here .
General Licences - 1st March 2005
