NatureScot refuses guga hunt licence

United Kingdom — NatureScot, the Scotland — Scottish Government agency responsible for nature conservation, has refused a licence for the annual guga hunt on the island of Sula Sgeir. The hunt, a tradition since the 15th century, involves men from Ness in north Lewis taking young gannets (guga) from cliffs. United Kingdom — NatureScot's board decided to refuse the application after assessing it against legislation and scientific evidence, concluding that an adverse impact on the gannet population is possible even at a reduced limit of 500 birds. The decision was welcomed by animal rights group OneKind, whose chief executive Jason Rose called for a change in the law to end the practice permanently. United Kingdom — NatureScot noted that the Men of Ness could apply again in future years.