BY BRENDAN ANDERSON
Time to Rethink Airgun Licensing in Scotland?
In 2017, Scotland introduced strict licensing requirements for air rifles following a tragic incident involving an illegally used airgun. While the intention behind the law was to enhance public safety, its unintended consequences are now harming conservation efforts—particularly the fight to save Scotland’s native red squirrels.
The airgun licensing system was introduced with little consultation, and its impact on pest control and wildlife management was seemingly overlooked. The reality is simple: criminals don’t apply for licences—only law-abiding citizens do. As a result, grey squirrel control has collapsed in gardens and woodlands due to bureaucratic hurdles. This is a direct threat to red squirrels, which are already outcompeted and exposed to deadly diseases by invasive greys.
Farmers, pest controllers, and conservationists who once played a vital role in managing grey squirrel populations are now bogged down in red tape instead of protecting native wildlife.
Grey squirrels, an invasive species, are one of the biggest threats to red squirrels. They dominate food sources, damage young trees, and carry squirrelpox—a virus fatal to reds. Before the airgun law, responsible shooters helped keep grey numbers in check, particularly in gardens and woodland fringes. Now, many have been deterred by the costly and time-consuming licensing process, leaving greys to spread unchecked.
The question is simple: is this law still fit for purpose?
If the goal is public safety, then targeting illegal use—not burdening lawful users—should be the priority. Meanwhile, conservationists and rural communities are left struggling to protect Scotland’s ecosystems. A common-sense review could simplify licensing for pest controllers, introduce exemptions for conservation work, and raise awareness about the need for grey squirrel management.
If you believe Scotland’s airgun laws need re-evaluating to protect red squirrels and support rural conservation efforts, share this message. Should we push for a petition? Do you think the law needs changing? Let’s open the discussion—for the sake of Scotland’s wildlife, countryside, and the future of our red squirrels.
Brendan Anderson is a campaigner to protect the Red Squirrel and his conservation group can be accessed here.