The British government is imposing a months-long ban on the hunting of brown rabbits during the breeding season.
Officials have passed a ban on shooting brown rabbits between February and October, specifically targeting hares during their key breeding months, The Guardian reports.
UK Nature Minister Mary Clay said a hunting ban would address major animal welfare concerns about brown rabbits. The measure aims to stop the killing of thousands of pregnant or nursing females each year and protect the young from starvation.
Clay told the Guardian: “Brown hares are a precious part of our countryside and an iconic British species, and it is completely wrong that so many of them are shot during the breeding season. “I am determined to stop the decline of this fantastic animal.”
In many cases, certain species are targeted for hunting as a form of population control. Across the UK, many residents are involved in shooting brown rabbits because of their preconceptions that the animal’s numbers are out of control.
However, the number of brown rabbits in England and Wales has declined by more than 80% over the past 100 years, according to the Hare Conservation Trust. While the exact reasons for this decline are unknown, there are many signs pointing to growth in the UK agricultural industry.
According to former Conservative environment secretary George Eustice, the idea of protecting brown rabbits has been around for many years. Despite this, a previously proposed ban on hare hunting was blocked.
Eustis spoke to The Guardian about the importance of ensuring the survival of brown rabbits.
“The first principle of conservation is to protect species during the breeding season, so it’s great news that the government will now establish a modern closed season for hares,” Eustice said.
Not only are brown rabbits an important part of the UK food chain, they also play an important role in grazing native vegetation. By enacting a temporary ban on hunting brown rabbits, the UK may be able to ensure the species continues to help protect its biodiversity.
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