Countryside users In Scotland are asked to take care not to disturb birds in the severe weather.
Due to the recent widespread severe weather, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) has today (9 January 2026) called for a period of Voluntary Restraint in shooting in Scotland of ducks, geese and waders including reared mallard. Areas of Aberdeenshire, Moray and the Highlands have been identified as being particularly affected.
This decision was reached following discussion among the statutory nature conservation bodies (SNCBs), governments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the shooting community. During a period of voluntary restraint, countryside users are asked to take extra care not to cause unnecessary disturbance to birds which may be struggling in these severe conditions. Consideration is needed around activities like shooting, dog walking, rambling, bird watching/ringing and canoeing or kayaking. The decision to show restraint should be made by individuals where feeding or roosting is affected by snow or ice, and should be based on local observations of the condition of the birds and their habitats.
Whilst there is currently no call for voluntary restraint for waterfowl shooting in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, countryside users are asked to exercise restraint where feeding and roosting are affected by snow and ice.
If severe weather conditions continue in Scotland a statutory suspension of waterfowl shooting could take effect from the 14th day of severe weather, 17 January at the earliest.
Detailed information on severe weather procedures, voluntary restraint and a daily update on the situation in all parts of Great Britain is available on the British Association for Shooting and Conservation website. Further information on the Severe Weather Scheme is also available on JNCC's website.
Published: