Snaring given new guidelines to ensure 'professional' use

NEW guidelines on the use of snares have been published in a bid to ensure a more "professional approach" to the practice.

At the launch of 'Snaring in Scotland - A practitioners' guide', environment minister Roseanna Cunningham said the details would address animal welfare issues and warned that the Scottish Government will continue to "closely monitor" the use of snares so that all practitioners are properly trained.

Snaring is expected to be one of the most controversial issues within the Wildlife and Natural Environment Bill, which is currently going through the Scottish Parliament. Animal rights campaigners oppose the use of the devices, claiming that pets and protected species are often accidentally caught.

But Ms Cunningham has previously ruled out a ban, saying the practice remains essential to countryside management, despite pressure from animal rights campaigners for them to be outlawed. Those who use snares maintain it is an essential tool for protecting crops, livestock and endangered species.

"There has been considerable controversy over the continuing use of snares in Scotland and this Government has taken the view that, in certain instances, their use remains necessary as a means of pest control," she said yesterday.

"This guide takes into account changes to snaring legislation which are designed to address animal welfare issues and ensure a professional approach to setting and checking snares.

"We will continue to closely monitor the use of snares and the progress of the industry in ensuring that all those who use them are properly trained."

The bill, which is currently in stage one at Holyrood, proposes that all people who use snares will have to have been trained and accredited. The British Association for Shooting & Conservation (BASC) Scotland said 730 individuals have completed the accreditation course.

Produced by BASC Scotland, the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) and the Scottish Gamekeepers Association, the guide has been updated twice to remain abreast of changes in the law.

"Whilst directed foremost at practitioners, it should also be read and understood by farm and estate owners and land managers who may engage snaring practitioners on their ground," said Douglas McAdam, chief executive of the Scottish Rural Property and Business Association.

"Snaring is an invaluable tool for pest control but must be undertaken in accordance with best practice and we urge our members to be familiar with the guide so snares are used in accordance with these guidelines."

By law, snares must be checked at least once a day, nooses must not be tightened beyond a certain point and the traps must be anchored to stop them being dragged by a captured animal.The traps mainly target rabbits and foxes and must not be left in a way that could suspend or drown an animal.