BASC response to English general licences consultation

BASC has responded to Natural England’s consultation on proposals to alter the existing general licences for England. There are over twenty English general licences and they make it legal to carry out a wide range of activities affecting a wide range of species of birds, mammals and amphibians.  Activities include possession, sales, exhibitions, rehabilitation and research.  Some general licences allow the management of species causing conflict with conservation or human interests.  For example, the shooting of woodpigeons is permitted at any time of the year to prevent crop damage.

Anyone may operate under the terms of a general licence if they have the land owner or occupier’s permission and comply with all the conditions set out in the appropriate licence; targeting specific species for the reasons set out in the general licence.

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