New guidance regarding the protection and welfare of gamebirds reared for sporting purposes in Wales has been issued for consultation by the Welsh Assembly Government.
The Code of Practice for the Welfare of Gamebirds Reared for Sporting Purposes, will be subject to a 12 week consultation. It will advise game farmers on the housing and breeding of pheasants and partridges.
Launching the consultation, the Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Dr Christianne Glossop said:
“Although we are confident that most competent game farmers are already following the animal welfare advice contained in the new code, I am concerned that certain practices may compromise the welfare of birds.
“No specific legislation applies to the rearing of gamebirds for sporting purposes, other than the Animal Welfare Act 2006 which makes it an offence to fail to provide for the welfare needs of an animal.
“This consultation will be looking at The draft Code of Practice which, will apply to those game farms that rear birds for sporting purposes. The consultation is not aimed at seeking evidence as to whether the sport of shooting gamebirds should be banned.
“I would urge anyone with an interest in the welfare of gamebirds to respond to this consultation.”
