Scottish animal welfare charity OneKind is calling for an end to the cruel guga hunt as NatureScot confirms that a new licence application has been received for the hunt this year.

The charity will soon submit a detailed report to NatureScot setting out the animal welfare implications of the hunt.

OneKind CEO Jason Rose says:

"The removal of baby birds from their nests and clubbing them to death is a cruel and needless act that causes fear, suffering and panic. And sadly it's not just the baby birds that suffer. Human presence in the colony can cause stress and disruption. Adult birds may become anxious, abandon nests, or struggle to care for their young.

"We live in a modern society where there are countless alternatives, and causing suffering to young wild animals, and nearby birds, cannot be excused by tradition.

"We will shortly submit a detailed report to NatureScot setting out the animal welfare implications of the hunt, as we understand it is vital that any decision is grounded in clear, robust evidence.

"We have also been engaging constructively with NatureScot and the Scottish Government since the hunt resumed last summer, and will be lobbying for the necessary change in the law that would put an end to the guga hunt once and for all.

"Scotland should be moving forward in how we treat our wild animals, not continuing outdated practices that cause animal suffering. We urge decision-makers to reject this application—it is not too late to spare these vulnerable chicks from unnecessary harm."

ENDS