A reminder to members that under the General Licenses (which permit us to shoot and trap certain pest species during the year), you need to make a return to the Scottish Government if you took any action against Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Herring Gulls, Starlings or House sparrows in 2009.
If you did cull any of these birds last year, you should send in a return to:
Scottish Government,
Landscapes and Habitats Division,
lJ South Victoria Quay,
Edinburgh EH6 6QQ
Your return should record the number of such birds, or their eggs, killed, taken or destroyed in each month and the reason for taking action.
Moves were made by Scottish Government late last year to remove Lesser Black Bakced Gulls, Herring Gulls, Starlings and Sparrows from 2010 General Licenses, arguing that because so few returns had been made, there was no reason for their continued inclusion. The SGA pointed out, amongst a number of things, that there is no official form or e-mail address to make an easy return, which may be hindering reporting. We felt that it would be better if a proper system for reporting was established and given time to work. Following review of responses to their consultation, the Scottish Government has confirmed the following changes:
- Lesser Black Backed Gulls are to remain on General Licences 01 and 03, conservation of wild birds and public health and safety. Retention on these licences will be subject to further review on useage from 2009 and 2010 returns
- Starlings and Sparrows will be removed from General Licences 02 and 03, preventing serious damage to livestock, feedstuffs etc and public health and safety.
- Herring Gulls will be removed from General Licence 02, preventing serious damage to livestock, feedstuffs etc.
You can view the specific licenses at: