Defra has today (23 March 2026) launched an eight-week consultation on its proposals to amend the list of birds which can be legally shot outside of a close season. Currently legislated within Schedule 2.1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, the proposals include extending the close season for woodcock and introducing a close season for woodpigeon. The proposals vary between England, Wales and Scotland.

A summary of the proposals can be seen in this table. Full details and explanations of these proposals can be found in the consultation document, which can be read here.

 The Countryside Alliance will be responding to the consultation and members and supporters are encouraged to do likewise. Subscribers to the Campaign for Shooting newsletter will be notified when our response has been published as this may be of help when submitting responses, which can be done either using the online portal or by email. The consultation will close at midnight on 17 May 2026.  

It is important to note that this consultation is entirely separate to the upcoming consultation of the licensing of shotguns, and to Defra’s consideration of licensing gamebird release as part of their recently announced Land Use Framework. You can also stay informed on these issues and many more through the Campaign for Shooting newsletter – sign up here.