Woodcock off the menu as ban introduced

The sale of woodcock – a succulent game bird favoured by gourmets – was banned in Ireland this weekend as a conservation measure to curb a flourishing trade in the bird.

There is a large winter influx of woodcock to Ireland but a ban was announced by Heather Humphreys, minister of state for arts, heritage and the Gaeltacht, on Friday.

The decision was taken following consultation with relevant stakeholders, in order to reduce shooting pressure on the species. The ban is effective from 1 November, which is the start date for the hunting season for woodcock which extends until 31 January 2016.

Minister Humphreys explained: “Concerns have been expressed by both hunting groups and conservation bodies that the extent of shooting is threatening the woodcock population. It is thought the increase in the shooting of woodcock may be due to the overseas market for the species.”

She added: “My Department will monitor the impact of the ban during the hunting season and I will consider additional protection measures, if required. Any further changes will only be implemented in consultation with the relevant hunting and conservation organisations.”

A number of hunting and conservation groups are supportive of the ban, including the National Woodcock Association of Ireland, the Association of Game Shot Operators, the National Association of Regional Game Councils and BirdWatch Ireland.