Why can't we shoot deer after dark?

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Why can't we shoot deer after dark?

In the case of the ban on night shooting, it is in the deers' best interests.

By George Wallace

Tuesday, 14 October 2008

As a wildfowler I am allowed to shoot duck and geese under the moon and I can also shoot rabbits, foxes and wild boar at night. Is there some reason why we can't shoot deer after dark?

Stalking
GEORGE WALLACE says:
So much countryside legislation appears to be written following advice from 'experts' who see the consultation process as an opportunity to force their own opinions and prejudices on the rest of us.

The Deer Act is no exception.

However, I am bound to say that in the case of the ban on night shooting I absolutely agree with the legislation.

Deer are sensitive creatures and easily stressed.

They regard the dark as a safe period when they can relax a little. I remember some research a few years ago which showed that stress levels increased enormously when deer were harried at night and I am sure that no true sportsman would wish to inflict that on his quarry.

On the other hand, if they are only coming on to your land at night and are doing a lot of damage, shooting them at the scene of the crime may be the only option.

That is the reason why licences are available but I very much hope that every application will be looked at with great care and licences for night shooting only issued when there really is no alternative.

Reports from Scotland suggest that licences for night shooting are given out with the freedom of double glazing leaflets at the door of B&Q, but I very much hope that is not true.

The licences are not supposed to be a prop for lazy buggers who can't be bothered to put the effort in during daylight.