An update on the re-issuing of GL40-42 for 2024/25

The Countryside Alliance has welcomed the announcement that new general licences for the control of wild birds in England (known as GL40-42) will replicate the conditions of the current GL40-42. The new licences will come into effect on 1 January 2024 and will be valid for two years. The continuation of the current conditions into the new licences has been something the Alliance, along with other partner organisations of Aim to Sustain, has been campaigning for.

Defra has, however, made it clear that there remains the potential to alter the new GL40-42 licences mid-term. There will be ongoing assessment by Defra of any risks associated with wild bird control, and if evidence does emerge which might necessitate amendment of the licences, then Defra will make such amendments. If this scenario does arise, then it is hoped that Defra will “endeavour to ensure that licence users have enough time to adjust”, as they have stated. The Alliance will continue to campaign for the best outcome for the countryside and conservation.

GL40-42 Briefly explained:

GL40 is the general licence to kill or take certain target species of wild birds for the purpose of conserving wild birds, flora and fauna of conservation concern.

GL41 is the general licence to kill or take certain target species of wild birds for the purpose of preserving public health or safety.

GL42 is the general licence to kill or take certain target species of wild birds for the prevention of serious damage to livestock, livestock foodstuffs, crops, vegetables, fruit, fisheries or inland waters.

The list of permitted target species, and the circumstances under which they can be killed or taken, is available here. All three licences allow only an ‘authorised person’ to carry out activities in relation to the killing or taking of permitted target species. For details of the legal control methods and other definitions, please see the appropriate page on the government website.

Download the species list for General Licences in England

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