Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024

The Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024, a significant development in those who manage wildlife, received Royal Assent on 30 April 2024. We are awaiting a commencement date, marking the Act's transition into a legally enforceable Act.

Whilst the Act amends the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and includes legislation dealing with the banning of the use of snares and other important licensing arrangements, the legislation also deals with the licensing of spring traps, which are included in the Spring Trap Approval Order.

The following link takes you to a helpful document that details what types of spring traps are approved and what kind of traps can be used for what type of target species in the UK.

SASA Guide to Approved Spring Traps - BSS072020.pdf

Please note that Mark IV Fenn Traps are not permitted to be used for trapping stoats (see page 19).

We have spoken to many members in the last while who are surprised at this. If you catch a stoat in a non-approved trap and the police have sufficient evidence to support a report to the Crown, your troubles have only just begun. A conviction may restrict your access to general licences and also impact your ability to possess a firearm certificate.

We will keep you updated regarding the provision of trapping courses when they become available.