The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has reiterated its commitment to banning snares in England.

The commitment follows a landmark ban on the use of snares which came into force in Scotland on Monday, drawing praise from wildlife groups, who urged the UK Government to implement a similar prohibition in England. Wales has banned snares since October 2023.

DEFRA confirmed its intention to act, with a spokesperson telling The Daily Mirror: “This government was elected on a mandate to introduce the most ambitious plans to improve animal welfare in a generation – that is exactly what we will do.

“We will ban the use of cruel snare traps that are so damaging to wildlife and pets.”

Snares, typically thin wire loops used to catch and restrain animals, are employed mainly on shooting estates to target predators and maintain game bird populations. Critics, however, argue that their use is both cruel and indiscriminate.

Government figures suggest that up to 200,000 snares may be set at any one time in the English countryside. These traps, campaigners say, cause immense suffering, as they tighten around an animal’s body, often leading to prolonged and painful deaths.

Research by DEFRA also indicates that nearly three-quarters of the animals caught in snares are non-target species. Hares, badgers, otters and domestic pets are frequently among the unintended victims.

The bans on snares in Scotland and Wales leave England as the only part of Great Britain where the traps remain legal—a status that wildlife advocates say must change swiftly.

Luke Steele, Executive Director of Wild Moors, said: “Foxes and other wildlife endure immense suffering when caught in snares. We encourage the UK Government to ensure England joins Scotland and Wales by banning these barbaric devices without delay.”