Temporary closure of the hunting season for wild birds
23 December 2010

The Department of the Environment has extended the temporary closure of the hunting season for wild birds due to the recent freezing conditions across the State. The closure is from 22nd December until at least Thursday 30th December 2010 (both dates included). If you are aware of any shooters continuing to shoot the affected birds, please report them immediately to your local Wildlife Ranger.

You can find ranger numbers at www.irishwildlifematters.ie or by phoning the NPWS on 01-8882000

Dept of Environment statement

Temporary Closure of Hunting (Open) Season for Birds Extended

The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has extended the temporary closure of the hunting season for wild birds due to the recent freezing conditions across the State.

The Wildlife Act 1976 (Temporary Suspension of Open Season) (No.2) (Amendment) (No.2) Order 2010 further suspends temporarily the hunting of wild birds due to the severity of weather conditions from Wednesday 22nd December 2010 up to and including Thursday 30th December 2010.

The species concerned are Mallard, Teal, Gadwall, Wigeon, Pintail, Shoveler, Scaup, Tufted Duck, Pochard, Goldeneye, Golden Plover, Snipe, Jack Snipe, Red-legged Partridge, Cock Pheasant, Woodcock, Woodpigeon, Canada Goose, Greylag Goose and Ruddy Duck.

It does not affect shooting of pen-reared birds where a licence to do so has been issued under Section 22(9)(b) of the Wildlife Acts...