'Summer snaring season' under way as campaigners urge public to speak out on hunting consultation
- Hayley O'Keeffe
- May 29
- 3 min read
Animal welfare campaigners have warned that the start of summer marks the beginning of what they describe as a renewed season of wildlife persecution on Britain's shooting estates.
The Hunt Saboteurs Association (HSA) says supporters are already discovering signs of snaring and trapping activity in the countryside as gamekeepers prepare for the forthcoming shooting season.
According to the group, snares are commonly placed along animal pathways, near watercourses and around so-called "stink pits" – piles of dead animals allegedly used as bait to attract foxes, badgers and other wildlife.
The organisation claims the practice is particularly prevalent on grouse moors, where gamekeepers are employed to carry out predator control to protect game birds destined for commercial shooting.
HSA campaigners say the use of stink pits raises additional concerns because the disposal of animal carcasses is subject to strict regulations, particularly when sites are located close to watercourses.
The group argues that while foxes are currently legal targets for snaring in England, the traps are indiscriminate and can also catch non-target species including badgers, hares, deer, dogs and cats.
Dr Jane Washington-Evans, of Wildlife Guardian, said: "Most people would be horrified if they saw an animal caught in a snare. These devices do not discriminate. They can cause immense suffering, not only to foxes but also to badgers, deer, hares, cats and even dogs unlucky enough to become trapped. It is immensely cruel.
"The Government's consultation on trail hunting is an important opportunity for the public to make their voices heard on the wider issue of wildlife protection and the treatment of animals in our countryside.
"For too long, practices that cause unnecessary suffering to wildlife have been allowed to continue under the banner of tradition or land management. We know that public attitudes are changing and that people increasingly want stronger protections for animals."
Campaigners point to Scotland and Wales, where governments have moved to ban snaring, despite what the HSA describes as attempts by parts of the shooting industry to rebrand snares as "humane cable restraints".
Jim Clark, of the Naturewatch Foundation said: "Snares are inherently indiscriminate and can cause prolonged suffering, capturing non-target species such as badgers, hares, and companion animals.
"Public concern is clear, with strong support for a ban, and the welfare case is overwhelming. Ending the use of snares is a vital step towards preventing unnecessary suffering and modernising wildlife management practices."
The warning comes after reports of alleged illegal snaring activity in Wales during 2025, despite the country's ban on the practice.
The HSA says the case demonstrates the need for continued monitoring and enforcement of wildlife protection laws.
The organisation also argues that traps and snares remain popular with some gamekeepers because they allow large areas of land to be managed without the need for constant patrols with firearms.
Campaigners say animals caught in snares can suffer severe injuries as they struggle to escape, with tightening wire loops causing lacerations and internal damage.
The campaign group is now urging members of the public to take part in the Government's consultation on trail hunting, which it believes presents an opportunity to strengthen protections for wildlife.
A spokesperson for the Hunt Saboteurs Association said: "Spring has sprung and summer is getting underway. Many animals have spent months breeding, and many of their young will be starting to wander further from their home. Out in the countryside, HSA supporters are beginning to stumble across signs of wildlife persecution on shooting estates."
Dr Washinton-Evans added: "I would urge anyone who cares about animal welfare, whether they live in the countryside or a city, to take a few minutes to respond to this consultation before the deadline on 18 June. Public consultations genuinely matter, and decision-makers need to hear from those who believe that wildlife deserves compassion and protection."
"This is our chance to help shape the future of wildlife welfare in Britain. If we want to see meaningful change, we all need to speak up."
The Government's public consultation on trail hunting closes on 18 June 2026.
Members of the public can read the HSA's guidance and submit their views at:
