Scottish Countryside Alliance responds to consultation on snares SSPCA powers

The Scottish Government recently opened a consultation seeking views on the use of snares and powers of the SSPCA inspectors in Scotland. ScotGov are recommending a ban on all snares and cable restraints and will bring forward amendments at Stage 2 of the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill. They are also proposing amendments to recommend further additional powers for SSPCA inspectors.

The following questions were included in the consultation:

1. Do you agree with proposals to amend the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Act so that it is an offence to use a snare/cable restraint for the purpose of killing or trapping a wild animal and in any way that is likely to injure a wild animal
2. Do you think that the Scottish Government should consider allowing an exception for the use of snares for the live capture of mammals for research purposes?
3. If yes question 2, do you agree than anyone using snares for this purpose would require a licence from NatureScot?
4. Are there any other purposes for which you think an exemption should be available to allow a person to use a snare/cable restraint to temporarily capture a wild animal?
5. Do you agree with our proposal to provide Scottish SPCA inspectors who are acting under their existing powers under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, with additional powers to search, examine and seize evidence in connection with specific offences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and under the Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill?
6. Do you agree with the limitations and conditions placed on these proposals?

This consultation closes on Monday 2 October 2023 and you can submit a response online using Citizen Space.

Read our full response to the consultation

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