We’re teaming up with the National Gamekeepers’ Association to run a series of fox snaring courses throughout Wales during February and March.
The training days are based around over 200 man-years of GWCT research and science and are designed to ensure participants are aware of the practical guidelines set out in last year’s Code of best practice on the use of snares in fox control, published by the Welsh Government.
The importance of following best practice
All fox snares set in Wales must comply with the requirements of the Welsh Government’s code of best practice. The modern fox snare, when set correctly, meets the strict requirements set out by the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards.
Rachel Evans, Director for the Countryside Alliance in Wales hit the nail on the head when she said, “I cannot stress enough that securing the future for snaring in Wales relies on snare users following the code to the letter”.
What does the course cover?
The GWCT’s Head of Education Mike Swan will be leading each training day and the course covers the following aspects:
- Legislation and the new Welsh Government code of best practice
- How to choose your equipment
- Snare preparation
- Selecting snare locations and how to avoid non-target species
- Humane dispatch of foxes and Release of non-target animals.
The theory element is taught in the classroom, followed by practical tuition outdoors in choosing snaring sites and setting snares.
Delegates will also have the option to attend the GWCT corvid cage-trapping course after lunch.
Where are the training days taking place?
We’re running the course on five dates during February and March:
The exact addresses of the venues will be forwarded to delegates on booking. The course will run from 10am to 1pm and costs £72 including VAT. If you want to attend the corvid cage-trapping course as well the cost is £108 including a VAT, a 50% discount on the usual fee.
You can book your place online here or by contacting Lynda Ferguson on 01425 651013 or lferguson@gwct.org.uk.