Is it illegal to hunt foxes in the UK?

Wondering whether it’s illegal to hunt foxes in the UK? Read on to discover all you need to know about UK hunting laws and the differences between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. We’ll look at what trail hunting is, how to control foxes without hunting, and the penalties for fox hunting in the UK.

What are the UK fox hunting laws?

It is illegal to hunt foxes in England, Scotland, and Wales. You can hunt foxes legally in Northern Ireland, so the information in this article isn’t relevant to those in Northern Ireland. In England, the Hunting Act 2004 bans hunting foxes and other wild mammals with dogs. The Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Act 2023 enforces the same law in Scotland.

There are some exemptions to fox hunting laws in the UK. For example, they can be hunted for pest control if they’re causing damage to your property or the environment, and you are still allowed to trail hunt using an animal scent in England and Wales (although not in Scotland).

What is the Hunting Act 2004?

The Hunting Act 2004 came into effect in February 2005 and its main purpose is to stop people from hunting wild animals, including foxes, using dogs in England and Wales. Section 11(2) of the act states that hunting is defined as:

“Engaging or participating in the pursuit of a wild mammal and one or more dogs are employed in that pursuit (whether or not by him and whether or not under his control or direction).”

What is the Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Act 2023?

The Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Act 2023 is similar to the Hunting Act 2004 in that it prohibits hunting with dogs in Scotland. Under this law, trail hunting using an animal scent is also banned.

What is trail hunting?

Trail hunting involves laying out a scent (typically animal-based) for people to follow with dogs. Those in the hunt follow on foot or horseback. This type of hunting was introduced to continue the tradition when fox hunting was banned, but some groups criticise it as a cover-up for those still practicing fox hunting with dogs.

If there is no intention to harm or kill foxes or other wild mammals, trail hunting is perfectly legal in England and Wales but isn’t permitted in Scotland under the Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Act 2023.

Can I shoot foxes on my land in the UK?

You can shoot foxes on your land in the UK if they are causing damage to your property, including livestock and crops, or the environment. However, there are rules you must follow. You must shoot the fox quickly once it’s been found, and you’ll either need proof that you’re the landowner or have written permission from the owner to kill foxes on their land.

Two dogs can be used to flush out foxes on your land, but they’re not allowed to go underground unless foxes are threatening wild birds or game birds being kept for shooting. In this instance, one dog is allowed to go underground. Hunting foxes with a pack of dogs, even on your land or with the landowner’s permission, is illegal in England, Scotland, and Wales.

Tips for controlling foxes without hunting

If foxes are causing damage to your property or the environment, there are ways to control them without resorting to hunting. Food waste can attract foxes onto your land, so ensure this is disposed of correctly and kept in sealed bins. Efficient fencing can also protect livestock from foxes and keep them safe from attacks, particularly at night.

You’re also permitted to catch foxes using traps or snares, provided you follow specific welfare guidelines. Cage traps should be checked at least once a day to ensure foxes and other animals aren’t subjected to prolonged periods of suffering.

You must use free-running snares that relax when a fox is captured, and any snares should be kept in good working order. If you intend to euthanise a fox you catch, this must be done in a humane way while the fox is in the snare. Any other animals caught besides grey squirrels and mink (which can be euthanised humanely) must be released immediately.

Cage traps and snares shouldn’t be used when captured animals are exposed to severe weather conditions or if severe weather conditions may prevent you from checking on these daily. You’re also prohibited from using a cage trap or snare where badgers are present. Snare traps cannot be used in public or urban areas, and you’re not permitted to use spring traps to kill a fox.

What is the penalty for fox hunting in the UK?

While you cannot be jailed for fox hunting in the UK, you can be fined, and your dogs and hunting equipment may be confiscated. Technically, the fine for hunting foxes in the UK is unlimited, and what you’re charged will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

What animals can you legally hunt in the UK?

You are permitted to hunt certain game animals in the UK. These include numerous species of deer, including red deer, roe deer, and fallow deer; various game birds, such as grouse, pheasants, and partridges; rabbits and hares. Hunting each of these species has rules and off-seasons that must be followed to ensure you’re staying within the law.

For example, you can shoot rabbits and hares on your land, provided you have the relevant firearms license. In England, you cannot legally hunt either of these animals on Christmas day and aren’t allowed to hunt hares on Sundays. You can also hunt rabbits and hares on someone else’s land with written permission from the landowner.

Fox hunting in the UK FAQS

Which laws cover fox hunting in the UK?

Fox hunting is prohibited in England and Wales under the Hunting Act 2004. In Scotland, hunting foxes is illegal under the Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Act 2023.

What is the fine for fox hunting in the UK?

The fine for fox hunting in the UK (excluding Northern Ireland) is unlimited. If caught, you may also have your hunting equipment and dogs taken from you.

Is trail hunting legal in the UK?

You are permitted to take part in a trail hunt in England and Wales, but not in Scotland, when using an animal-based scent.

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