
Shooting to protect the environment
Earlier this month, Defra updated its position on protecting 30 per cent of land for nature in England by 2030, and it turns out, they need shooting. Ian Danby explains.
Get information on the legal shooting season for mammals and birds in the UK.
Apply for funding for your project or make a donation today
Comprehensive information and advice from our specialist firearms team.
Everything you need to know about shotgun, rifle and airgun ammunition.
Find our up-to-date information, advice and links to government resources.
Everything you need to know on firearms law and licensing.
All the latest news and advice on general licences and how they affect you.
The decision by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) to remove magpies from the list of birds that can be controlled under general licence in Wales could make it even harder for farmers to stay economically viable, says BASC.
NRW has confirmed that from 1 January 2024, it will be an offence to take or kill a magpie in Wales under GL001. Individuals will instead have to apply to NRW for a specific licence.
BASC Wales director Steve Griffiths said: “Magpies were removed previously from GL004 for conservation purposes. The removal of the species from GL001 could result in a loss of livestock, which will make it even harder for farmers to stay economically viable in difficult times.”
For more information or to download a copy of the 2024 general licences for Wales visit: Natural Resources Wales / General licences for birds 2024.
Earlier this month, Defra updated its position on protecting 30 per cent of land for nature in England by 2030, and it turns out, they need shooting. Ian Danby explains.
Two-page document highlights the necessity of woodpigeon control.
Ian Danby outlines the opportunities – and potential threats – for shooting presented by Natural England’s State of Natural Capital Report.
Sign up to our weekly newsletter and get all the latest updates straight to your inbox.
© 2025 British Association for Shooting and Conservation. Registered Office: Marford Mill, Rossett, Wrexham, LL12 0HL – Registered Society No: 28488R. BASC is a trading name of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number 311937.
BASC Direct Ltd is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Agria Pet Insurance Ltd who administer the insurance and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register Number 496160. Agria Pet Insurance is registered and incorporated in England and Wales with registered number 04258783. Registered office: First Floor, Blue Leanie, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7QW. Agria insurance policies are underwritten by Agria Försäkring.
If you have any questions or complaints about your BASC membership insurance cover, please email us. More information about resolving complaints can be found on the FCA website or on the EU ODR platform.
Notifications