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Wildlife protection bill hailed as big step for nature and our environment

The Scottish Government's Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill will be a big step for Scotland's iconic nature and our environment, say the Scottish Greens.

The Scottish Government's Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill will be a big step for Scotland's iconic nature and our environment, say the Scottish Greens.

Commenting on the bill, which was published today, the Scottish Greens rural affairs spokesperson, Ariane Burgess MSP said:

"This is a hugely important piece of legislation that Scottish Greens and wildlife and animal rights campaigners have been calling for over a number of years. It was a key commitment in the Bute House Agreement, and we are very proud to see it becoming a reality.

"Wildlife crime, including the persecution of birds of prey and other wildlife, has been endemic on Scotland’s grouse moors for too long. This Bill will play a crucial role in ending the lawlessness and protecting iconic species like golden eagles.

"The Bill will also end the suffering caused by inhumane traps like glue traps, and will introduce urgently needed regulation of the cruel use of live birds as bait in crow traps. This is important progress towards making Scotland a country that looks after animals and protects their welfare.

"Ending the practice of setting fire to the moors on peatland soils, and tightly regulating burning elsewhere, will be good for our climate. Carrying out muirburn to try and improve the habitat for red grouse so that there are more of them to be shot for bloodsports is outdated, unnecessary,  and damages the environment and our climate.

“Our iconic hills and wildlife are for all of us. Their management must serve local communities and the national interest rather than the interests of the few who pursue what has become a niche and elitist bloodsport. This bill will be an important step on that journey.”