Dear All
Woodcock have now been listed by the GWCT as red-listed an upgrade from their amber status.
This has come on the back of declining domestic populations. GWCT remain unclear as to the cause, but can’t rule our shooting.
We assume that the majority of the populations shot at Tulchan are migratory, however woodcock are like Salmon, returning to known regions and woodland on an annual basis. By reducing these populations we are in danger of permanently impacting the long term situation for this species at Tulchan.
We will therefore follow the GWCT guidance and not shoot woodcock for the remainder of the season.
The article at the link above makes for interesting reading and identifies the sensitive nature of this species to various impacts. It is worth a read.
If there are any questions on the above then please give me a call.
Neil