Pests news from BPCA

26 February 2016

BPCA attend DEFRA meeting regarding trapping

Dee Ward-Thompson attended a DEFRA meeting held on 31 January regarding trapping. 38 people attended the meeting, including farmers, gamekeepers and pest controllers. BPCA were the only pest control association represented.

EU legislation is in place regarding traps for stoats across 28 member states, and the UK is the only one that doesn't comply. We are compliant in relation to traps for beavers, pine martens and otters. Some stoat traps have been tested and proven compliant with legislation in the EU and it had been hoped that this data would translate across and could be used in the UK. However, ‘our' stoats are not killed within the stipulated time to death of 45 seconds (NB: rats required time to death, by comparison, is 300 seconds).

While pest controllers are not regularly asked to actively catch stoats (unlike, say, gamekeepers), if a stoat is accidentally caught by pest control activity then this may be an offence. We are not sure exactly of the timescale, but as early as June 2016 the UK Government may be at risk of an infraction.

There are currently no traps in the UK approved for despatching stoats, and we have been informed that there will not be any derogation granted. Once a proper timeline is available BPCA will keep members informed. Current advice is that if your risk assessment of the site is of a sufficient standard, then accidental trapping of a stoat will not be prosecuted. Dee Ward-Thompson will be available at PPC Live should you have any specific questions.

Source: BPCA.org.uk

Highlights View all news

13 March 2025

Latest news

Hantavirus and the role of pest control in preventing its spread

Following news of a high profile Hantavirus death recently, we've put together some information on the virus and how good pest management can help stop it spreading.

Read more

06 November 2024

Latest news

CRRU UK prepares rodenticide users for 2026 certification requirements

CRRU UK confirms that from 2026, sellers of professional-use rodenticides will only accept two forms of proof of competence at the point of sale.

Read more

06 June 2024

Latest news

Minister Pow changes mind on glue board licensing scheme (England)

As a result of BPCA’s lobbying efforts, Minister Pow has asked for changes to the glue board licensing regime in England. 

Read more
Latest View all news

02 July 2025

Latest news

Pest control professionals flock to BASF farm training day

Press release: Pest control professionals from across the UK travelled to Hurcott Farm, Somerset, to take part an immersive, full-day training event.

Read more

26 June 2025

Latest news

Join BPCA's Qualifications Framework working groups

BPCA is looking for volunteers to join two working groups, to help develop new qualifications for the future framework.

Read more

26 June 2025

Latest news

BASF renews Mental Health survey to uncover ongoing challenges in pest control

Press release: BASF, has launched its second annual mental health survey, continuing its mission to better understand and support the wellbeing of pest controllers across the UK.

Read more