Snaring in Scotland

On the 11th March laws on the use of snares in Scotland will change. The legislation formalises much of the advice given in the existing code of practice: "Snaring in Scotland: A Practitioners’ Guide", written by Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, the Scottish Gamekeepers Association BASC Scotland and endorsed by Scottish Government and bodies such as NFUS.

The Snares (Scotland) Order 2010 makes it clear that snares must be fitted with a safety stop appropriate for the target species and made free-running. Snares must also be fixed in such a way that they cannot be dragged and where the target species will not become entangled in other branches or fences while being held in the snare. The order also requires that snares are checked at least once every day at intervals of no more than 24 hours.

These regulations offer greater clarity to snare users and incorporate a number of suggestions arising out of GWCT research into snares. In order to make sure snare users are kept informed of current best practice the GWCT has helped produce and provide training in the use of snares in Scotland with SGA and BASC. Each of the organisations can conduct the standard training course.

For more information and to book please contact your local organisation office or Lynda Ferguson on 01425 651013.  Please click on the picture below to download a copy of the pdf.