Defra, UK - Wildlife and Countryside

Wildlife management

		Latest news and current issues 1 January 2008 - From today all general licences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) are issued by Natural England, copies of all new general licences can be accessed from this link. 21 August 2007 - An amendment to the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 came into force today, which has a range of consequences for the protection of European protected species and licensing under this legislation. Further information. 31 July 2007 - Abolition of Game Licences in England and Wales. New Regulations have been introduced to remove restrictions for those shooting and dealing in game. The Regulations come into force on 1 August 2007, more information can be found under Game Licences. earlier stories What is wildlife management? Successful wildlife management focuses on the impacts (both positive and negative) of wildlife on man's activities and vice versa. This complements non-species specific measures such as the biodiversity duty placed on public bodies, agri-environment measures and other incentive schemes, together with Government involvement with voluntary Habitat and Species Action Plans. Wildlife Management Strategy A Wildlife Management Strategy for Defra is under development which aims to achieve more effective management of the impacts of wildlife on man's activities, and vice versa. The Strategy will have at its core a logical evidence-based framework for policy development and decision-making on whether Government should intervene in wildlife management situations and, if so, how best it should do so. This will enable better achievement of our biodiversity objectives while fully taking into account species conservation and welfare issues as well as human or socio-economic activities. Public consultation on a full set of proposals for the Wildlife Management Strategy will take place in summer 2008. Responsibility for resolving problems Responsibility for dealing with problems caused by wild animals in the UK normally rests with the occupier of the land concerned. Defra does not provide a 'pest' control service. This is a matter for individuals, private pest control companies or local authorities to address within the constraints of the law. Wildlife Species Conservation Division The European and UK Species Policy Team of Defra's Wildlife Species Conservation Division has responsibility for the Department's policy relating to the management of domestic wildlife. Natural England is responsible for delivery of Defra's policy on wildlife management. Natural England Natural England is authorised to discharge certain Defra wildlife management functions, including licensing, under an Agreement under section 78 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006. How Natural England carry out these functions is detailed in the 'Agreement on Natural England's discharge of Wildlife Management Functions'. For advice on wildlife in England, the relevant legal considerations, and guidance on how to apply for licences under wildlife legislation please access the Natural England website.