Campaigners are calling for stricter rules over the release of gamebirds into the Welsh countryside due to fears over avian flu and the risk to native wildlife. With the annual shooting season underway, RSPB Cymru warned of “unsustainable” numbers of pheasants and red-legged partridges being let loose.
A decision over whether a controversial licensing system, which went through a public consultation three years ago, for gamebird releases has been delayed. The government of Wales said that it would be giving “careful consideration” to the proposal. The shooting industry, however, has warned that harsher measures threaten jobs.
Between 800,000 and 2.3 million gamebirds are believed to be released into the Welsh countryside annually. Ministers first asked for advice regarding more oversight back in 2022.
A year later, environment watchdog Natural Resources Wales (NRW) recommended a “risk-based licensing framework,” which would prohibit any releases without permission.
“We’re now in 2025, the government hasn’t made any decision nor any announcement and we wonder what’s the hold-up, what’s the problem,” Julian Hughes, head of species at RSPB Cymru said. With every passing year, there is a “growing risk to nature,” he said, as large releases of non-native gamebirds threaten native species as they compete for food, and an increase in predators.
Fears over the spread of avian flu has, in recent years, also fuelled calls for tighter rules, he added.
Stay tuned to EyeOnLondon for the latest news and expert opinions.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
