When Chris Packham writes his next manifesto for wildlife he might also appoint a minister for the Truthful Representation of Science. This will neatly avoid any suggestion that the existing evidence is being manipulated or misinterpreted to fit his policies. If he wishes to claim his manifesto is based on sound science he must then review all the available evidence rather than seek out papers that support his personal opinion.
Unfortunately he did not, so many of the claims made about woodcock, pheasants, heather burning, red grouse, mountain hares and farming, for example, bear only a passing resemblance to the available evidence. Our wildlife deserves better than this and our offer to take him through any of the 1,193 scientific papers we have published remains open.
Andrew Gilruth
GWCT Director of Communications
Help us create a thriving countryside rich in game and other wildlife
What do we do?
- We use science to promote game and wildlife management as an essential part of nature conservation.
- We develop scientifically researched game and wildlife management techniques.
- We promote our work to conservationists, including farmers and landowners and offer an on-site advisory service on all aspects of game and wildlife management, so that Britain’s countryside and its wildlife are enhanced for the public benefit.
- We influence government policy with sound science that creates progressive and effective policies.
- We support best practice for field sports that contribute to improving the biodiversity of the countryside.
What do we believe?
- Scientific research should underpin sustainable conservation practice.
- Game and wildlife management is the foundation of good conservation.
- Field sports (in particular shooting and fishing) can contribute substantially to the conservation of landscape, habitat and wildlife.
- Humane and targeted predator control is an essential part of effective game and wildlife conservation.
- We utterly oppose those who engage in wildlife crime.
- Good conservation goes hand-in-hand with economic land use.
How your money is spent
- We spent over £5m on vital game and wildlife research and public education in 2017.
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