Laws and regulations related to game and wildlife management

The Hunting Act 2004 strictly prohibits the hunting of wild mammals with dogs in England and Wales, aiming to protect animals from unnecessary suffering.
Deer Act 1991 dictates that certain methods of killing or taking deer are illegal, and it establishes closed seasons for deer species, securing their mating and birthing times.
Game Act 1831 specifies the time frame during which it is legal to hunt particular species of game birds.
GL33 General licence for gamebirds 2019 permits the sale of live or dead game birds, within a specific period, under prescribed conditions.
Section 16 licences can give certain individuals, under unique circumstances, permission to carry out activities otherwise prohibited by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Ethical considerations mean that game management should promote sustainable hunting practices, ensuring populations of game species are not overexploited.

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 offers protection to various species of fauna and flora in the UK, prohibiting the killing, injuring, or disturbance of these species.
Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 aims to protect certain habitats and species which are considered to be of European importance.
Protection of Badgers Act 1992 illegalises the killing, injuring, or taking of badgers, including interfering with a badger sett.
The Mammals Protection Act 1996 protects various types of mammals against cruelty and exploitation.
Nesting birds protection: According to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offense to intentionally kill, injure, or take any wild bird; or to take, damage, or destroy its nest while it is being used or built.
Consideration should be given to balance the needs of wildlife conservation with the needs of game species. For instance, overpopulation of a particular game species can negatively impact the ecosystem balance and the survival of various wildlife species.

Approval and Licensing

Responsible game and wildlife managers should possess an appropriate level of knowledge and skills, often proven by obtaining a relevant qualification and/or experience in the field.
Various operations or activities, such as disturbance of certain wildlife species or their habitats, may require a licence from the Natural England, Natural Resources Wales, Scottish Natural Heritage, or the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, depending on the location.
Any person who knowingly contravenes wildlife and game laws can be subjected to fines, imprisonment, forfeiture of any bird or animal unlawfully possessed, and removal of the right to hold a game licence for up to five years.
Ethics and laws are inseparable from game and wildlife management. Understanding and respecting them is crucial in preserving our environment for future generations.