Lifting of voluntary restraint in Scotland

Woodcock in the snow

Today, 15 January 2025, is the third consecutive day of thaw conditions in Scotland under the agreed procedures for managing the shooting of ducks, geese and waders during prolonged severe weather. 

After reaching Severe Weather Day 9 on Sunday 12 January, improved weather conditions seen over the last few days are forecast to continue. As such, the voluntary restraint on the shooting of wildfowl and waders called for on Friday 10 January can be officially lifted.

However, those who shoot are asked to continue their responsible action(s) and exercise restraint for as long as necessary in any areas where waterfowl appear to need more time to recover lost body condition or return to normal behaviour. 

Please bring this notice to the attention of your members and any other friends or contacts, not least so that the shooting community can be seen to be acting responsibly under the circumstances.

Please note that if severe weather returns then further responsible action by the shooting community may be needed.

Find out more about the impact of prolonged frozen conditions on waterfowl and waders, and the agreed process around shooting here.

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