Welsh Government
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Animal welfare at the heart of new Snares Code

Deputy Minister for Farming and Food, Rebecca Evans, has welcomed a new, improved Code of Practice on the use of snares in fox control that places the welfare of animals at its core.

A UK Government-commissioned report for England and Wales on snares published in 2012 highlighted that although snares were mainly used when other control methods were not available, many of the snares in use were leading to animal welfare risks and the capture of non-target animals.

Following the findings of the report, the Welsh Government has been working with stakeholders to find ways to improve welfare standards by improving snaring practice in Wales.

The Deputy Minister 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 practicable advice and 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 Code of Best Practice on the Use of Snares in Fox Control, published recently, is aimed at those who use snares in the Welsh countryside. It seeks to deliver higher animal welfare standards, increased efficiency in terms of fox control, and ensure that fewer non-target species are being caught.

Related Link: 

Code of Best Practice on the Use of Snares in Fox Control

Channel website: http://gov.wales

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