13th January
SGA Chairman Alex Hogg has written to all MSPs, pointing out that the management of land for farming and sport is crucial to the viability of rural areas and until a viable alternative is found for controlling fox numbers, it is essential that snaring remains a legal management tool.
He states: "Foxes pose a serious threat to the viability of businesses, not to mention the welfare of much of our wildlife. The fox population has multiplied in recent times and is seriously endangering many of Scotland's rare waders, farmland and upland birds. Gamekeepers, shepherds, farmers and poultry keepers use snares to protect their wildlife and livestock from these foxes which kill randomly."
Mr Hogg asks MSPs who watch the anti-snaring film to bear several points in mind, including the fact that any snared animal which is filmed struggling is doing so because a human being is standing just a few feet away, creating panic.
He writes: "Foxes and rabbits which are caught in snares typically lie low, moving very little. They are dispatched by a gamekeeper or shepherd immediately they are found.
"Snares do not choke animals. Every modern snare has a "stop" which prevents the wire tightening, creating a holding device. A non-target animal can be quickly released unharmed. And all gamekeepers, shepherds and farmers who use snares are in the process of being trained and accredited in the most modern techniques and technology."
Mr Hogg tells MSPs his members are sensitive to the views of people who do not approve of snaring, but emphasises that for the moment there is no other viable management tool.
"Snaring is essential if we are going to protect wildlife and livestock and keep the countryside viable. Until we find another solution I hope you will support the continuation of snaring in Scotland."