Pest and Predator Control
About Pest Control
Legislation affecting pest and predator control in the UK may differ for the same species depending on whether it occurs in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. BASC produces codes of practice to set the standards for sporting shooting and related wildlife management activities.
General licences for pest and predator control
General licences are issued by government agencies to provide a legal basis for people to carry out a range of activities relating to wildlife.
The general licences relevant to pest birds are issued on the basis of one or more purposes (prevent damage to crops, conservation of wild birds, preserve public health etc). They include a list of bird species for which that purpose is a valid reason for pest and predator control to be taken.
The latest update on General Licences
News

Minister clarifies recreational shooting can take place in Northern Ireland
BASC has received clarification on recreational shooting during the current Northern Ireland Covid-19 restrictions following ministerial meeting

BASC issues ‘end of season’ advice for shoots
BASC highlights help and support available to ‘keepers and shoot managers.

Notifying PSNI of firearm magazines unfair and unnecessary, claims BASC
New requirement to list magazines on firearms certificates discussed in depth at meeting between BASC Northern Ireland and Paul Givan MLA.
FAQs
For specific advice on game shooting matters please contact us on: 01244 573019 email