There are currently 21 species on Ireland’s Open Seasons Order. As outlined in NPWS’s 2019 Article 12 report, the conservation status of a number of species which are permitted to be hunted at certain times of the year under the Open Seasons Order is declining.
Of these 21 species, 7 are listed as Amber on the BOCCI list (Tufted Duck, Teal, Gadwall, Wigeon, Pintail, Mallard, Greylag Goose) and 8 are listed as Red on the BOCCI list (Pochard, Goldeneye, Woodcock, Golden Plover, Snipe, Red Grouse, Scaup, Shoveler).
The wild bird hunting season commenced on September 1st and, like many people, I am deeply concerned at the potentially unsustainable hunting of birds of conservation concern in Ireland. It is difficult to assess the sustainability of hunting these birds, as there are some gaps in the data on population size and trends and we do not have information on the numbers of birds hunted annually. It is clear that a new way forward is needed, based on scientific evidence, collaboration and strategic action, to ensure the sustainable hunting of birds of conservation concern in Ireland. To this end, I have established a working group in NPWS to determine the next steps and to invite stakeholders to participate in a collaborative dialogue in the coming months to develop a plan for a sustainable future for these species in Ireland.
