Animal campaigners criticise grouse shoot Covid exemption

Animal welfare campaigners have criticised the decision to exempt grouse shoots from Covid restrictions limiting gatherings to six people.

Scottish charity OneKind said wildlife had “thrived” during the lockdown, but was now being “shot for fun”.

Outdoor activities, including shooting, are permitted provided they are organised, licenced and physical distancing rules are adhered to.

Scottish Land and Estates, an organisation representing estate owners and land managers, said country sports had been “unfairly singled” out for criticism.

It reported a special meeting had been due to take place at the weekend to discuss the exemption, but instead the matter was dealt with through ministerial correspondence.

In Scotland, shoots are permitted provided guidance and laws to prevent the spread of Covid-19 are followed.

The Scottish government said: “Under the regulations, a maximum of six people from two different households are able to gather together.

“However, there are some exemptions in place for organised activities. Outdoor and sporting activities such as shooting may be permitted if they meet criteria laid out in the legislation and adhere…