The government today, 4 September 2026, launched a new call for evidence to better understand the impacts of rearing, releasing, and shooting gamebirds. The review will focus on effects on wildlife, the environment, and animal welfare.
The initiative aims to gather evidence covering the impact on wildlife and protected habitats, the spread of disease, animal welfare, wildlife crime, and the use of natural resources. It will also investigate how gamebirds are bred and kept before their release.
Defra Minister Baroness Hayman stated that while gamebird shooting is a long-established part of rural life, it is important to understand its effects on wildlife, the environment, and the welfare of the birds themselves. She added that the government wants to hear from those with relevant knowledge and experience to ensure future decisions are based on the best available evidence.
Gamebirds reared for shooting are not subject to the same animal welfare rules as poultry farmed for food. The evidence collected will help determine if current animal welfare protections for gamebirds are adequate and whether similar welfare requirements should be developed. This call for evidence follows the publication of the Animal Welfare Strategy and the Land Use Framework for England.
The call for evidence will conclude on Thursday 1 November 2026.