Welcoming new code of practice on fox control in Wales

The Countryside Alliance is pleased to welcome the Welsh Government's code of best practice on the use of snares for fox control.

The Alliance has worked closely with the Welsh Government and other stakeholders, who are both for and against the use of snares, to ensure that that the new code is workable and effective whilst improving animal welfare.

Countryside Alliance director for Wales, Rachel Evans said: "The new code of practice is an excellent document which will improve animal welfare in Wales. It will reduce the inadvertent capture of non-target species such as deer and domestic animals, whilst allowing snaring to continue as an essential technique for controlling foxes to protect livestock and wildlife.

"It is vital that all snare users are fully conversant with this code and only set snares in accordance with it."

Deputy Minister for Farming and Food Rebecca Evans said: "As our animal health and welfare framework makes clear, the way we treat our animals is an important reflection of our society's values. Throughout the development of this code we have worked side by side with interested parties across Wales and I would like to thank all those involved in these discussions for their input.

"It is vital that we improve awareness of the issues around snaring and we will continue to work closely with our partners to make sure the messages from the code are widely disseminated and publicised across Wales.

"I hope this action will help improve snare operator practice by providing clear and practical advice on how to comply with the law. This will in turn ensure improved standards in animal welfare and reduce the impact on non-target species."

The Alliance will build on its work in Wales to promote the code of practice with the relevant Minister at DEFRA. The code is available as a hard copy or can be downloaded here