Wild birds can be killed to protect game birds in England – new guidance

Gamekeepers told certain species such as carrion crows and jackdaws can be shot as government updates definition of livestock'

Some wild birds can be killed in order to protect game birds bred for shooting in England, the government has ruled, in an update to guidance on general shooting licences.

General licences give broad permissions to shoot certain species of wild birds to protect livestock, aid conservation, and preserve health and public safety.