Keepers slam shake-up to Scottish general licences

Fury as greater protection is given to rooks and gulls in major changes to general licences in Scotland, with restrictions in many upland areas

A major shake-up to the general licences for Scotland has been heavily criticised by gamekeepers.

Under the new regime announced by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), rooks and greater black-backed gulls can no longer be killed to protect wild birds.

Greater black-backed gulls and collared doves can no longer be killed to prevent damage to livestock and crops, and only Canada geese and feral pigeons can be killed to protect human health and safety.

However, in good news for crofters, greylag geese will be able to be shot all year round.