The sound of gunfire destroys the peace on the League Against Cruel Sports’ wildlife reserves

Watching blackbirds and fieldfares in the orchard on the League’s Baronsdown wildlife reserve, squabble over windfall apples that are well past their best, is as enthralling as any nature documentary. There is something special and calming about taking time to connect with nature, especially on a dreary winter’s day.  

Suddenly, I am jolted back into reality by the sound of gunfire from the neighbouring pheasant shoot. Not one or two shots, nor even ten or twenty shots, but hundreds of shots, and they seem to go on for an age before the guns fall silent and peace is restored.  

Pheasant shooting is a regular occurrence on Exmoor throughout autumn and into January, despite this being a National Park. I can’t help wondering how people can gain pleasure from shooting at birds and what made them become so different from the League’s compassionate supporters. We know that the majority of the public are against pheasant shooting and we can only hope that this mass slaughter of birds will soon be consigned to history.  

The shortest days of winter have almost passed, and we can soon look forward to more hours of daylight and shorter nights. Some wild animals, such as foxes and ravens, are already thinking about breeding and producing the next generation, while others, like hazel dormice, will stay tucked up in their nests until spring.  

The changing climate is making life even more precarious for wildlife and so it is important that there are places like Baronsdown where animals can rest and rejuvenate. It can be so rewarding working with others to help nature, and together we can achieve great things for wildlife and people alike. There are many community projects out there taking positive actions, and I would encourage everyone to take part if they are able.