
The GWCT Big Farmland Bird Count gets underway
The GWCT Big Farmland Bird Count allows shoots to measure the positive impact of their conservation work.
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.
After much lobbying, BASC understands that the Government is reviewing its decision to require all shoots releasing on Special Protected Areas, plus a 500m buffer zone, in England to obtain individual licences.
 Releasing in these areas has previously been done under a general licence (GL43), which expires on 30 May.
BASC will be lobbying for releasing in these areas to continue to be done under general licence. We are also taking legal advice on the legality of any decision taken without consultation with the shooting organisations.Â
BASC has emphasised to the Government that shoot plans and investment are already far advanced and that to introduce individual licences at this time would cause massive confusion, as well as environmental and economic damage.
We will continue to keep our members updated regarding developments on this issue.

The GWCT Big Farmland Bird Count allows shoots to measure the positive impact of their conservation work.

Peri Burchmore, winner of the BASC gamekeepers’ classes on Gundog Day at Crufts 2023, will be back this year to take on the competition.

BASC is appealing to gamekeepers, shoot managers and shooting businesses to assist with the development of a new gamekeeping and wildlife management qualification.