Chris Packham Condemns Hunting Crimes Detailed In New Report

Chris Packham has condemned the hundreds of wildlife crimes detailed in a new report on illegal hunting, calling for urgent action from the UK’s newly elected Labour government. The report, published by Protect the Wild, reveals that nearly 600 wild animals were chased or killed during the 2023 to 2024 hunting season, prompting Packham to advocate for a proper ban on hunting.

The data analyzed in the report highlights the extent to which wild animals are illegally hunted and killed under the pretense of following artificial trails. Hunt supporters argue that trail hunting is ethical and legal, but the report exposes instances where hunt staff have interfered with badger setts and attempted to dig foxes out of the ground. In addition to wildlife crimes, the report also details numerous attacks on members of the public and activists, as well as thousands of pounds in associated policing costs. Packham emphasizes that even one wild animal being chased or killed is one too many, underscoring the need for legislative action to address the cruelty and criminality involved in fox hunting.