Can You Shoot a Fox with an Air Rifle?

With a noticeable surge in popularity in recent years, air rifle shooting has become the go-to choice for many shooters. Its accessibility and cost-effectiveness compared to more traditional firearms have made a massive difference in recreational shooting, pest control, and hunting. However, with implications for wildlife management and pest control, what do the laws around this look like?

In regions where fox populations have become a concern, air rifles offer a more accessible solution for managing these animals, potentially reducing their impact on local ecosystems and agriculture. However, this raises an essential question for responsible hunters: Is shooting a fox with an air rifle permissible? In this blog, we will look at the UK's hunting laws, how fox control works and whether you can shoot foxes with an air rifle.

What are the laws regarding air rifle shooting in the UK?

In the UK, the legal considerations surrounding the use of air rifles and hunting are complex and vary across regions. Air rifles are subject to specific regulations, and their use is tightly controlled to ensure public safety and animal welfare.

In the UK, the laws regarding air rifles and hunting are as follows:

Air Rifle Classification

1) Air Rifles with Muzzle Energy Below 12ft/lb

• No License Required: These air rifles are not classified as firearms under UK law, meaning they can be purchased and owned without a firearms certificate.

• Usage: They are commonly used for target shooting and pest control. Although they do not require a license, users must adhere to safety regulations and ensure they are used responsibly.

• Restrictions: While no license is needed, users must be over 18 to purchase or own these air rifles. Additionally, they must not be used in a manner that endangers public safety or causes harm to protected wildlife.

2) Air Rifles with Muzzle Energy Exceeding 12ft/lb

• Firearms Classification: These are considered firearms due to their higher power and potential to cause significant harm.

• Firearms Certificate Required: To own or use these air rifles, you must apply for a FAC air rifle certificate. This involves a background check, demonstrating a valid reason for ownership (such as pest control or sport shooting), and meeting safety and storage requirements.

• Regulations: Owners must comply with stricter regulations, including secure storage and usage conditions, to prevent unauthorised access and ensure public safety.

Location Restrictions:

1) Shooting on Private Property

• Owner's Permission: You must have explicit permission from the landowner to shoot on their property. This ensures that all activities are conducted legally and with respect to the property owner's rights.

• Boundaries and Safety: Shooters must know property boundaries to avoid trespassing. Ensuring that pellets do not leave the property is crucial, as this could lead to legal issues or endanger others.

• Backstops and Safety Measures: Adequate backstops should prevent pellets from travelling beyond the intended target area. This is essential for air weapon safety and to prevent damage to neighbouring properties.

2) Observing Local Laws and Restrictions

• Local Bylaws: Some areas may have specific bylaws that further restrict the use of air rifles, such as noise ordinances or designated no-shoot zones. It's essential to be aware of and comply with these local regulations.

• Proximity to Public Areas: Shooting near public roads, footpaths, or populated areas is generally prohibited to ensure public safety. There are legal minimum distances that must be maintained from such areas.

• Wildlife Protection: Certain areas may have restrictions to protect wildlife, especially in conservation zones or during specific seasons. Shooters must ensure they are not violating wildlife protection laws.

Hunting Regulations:

1) Target Species:

Air rifles are commonly used for hunting small game and pests, including rabbits, squirrels, rats, and certain birds like pigeons. These species are often targeted for pest control or population management.

2) Ethical Hunting Practices:

Shooters must ensure that their actions are humane and ethical. This includes using appropriate calibres and shot placement to ensure a quick and humane kill, minimising suffering.

Compliance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 provides the legal framework for wildlife and wild animal protection in the UK. It outlines which species can be hunted and under what conditions, ensuring that wildlife is conserved and protected.

The Act prohibits the hunting of protected species, including many birds and mammals. You must be aware of which species are protected to avoid legal repercussions. Some species may only be hunted during specific seasons to protect breeding populations and it is vital for you to make yourself aware of these restrictions and plan your activities accordingly.

So, with all this in mind - can you shoot foxes with an air rifle?

In the UK, shooting foxes with an air rifle is technically legal, provided it does not cause undue suffering to the animal. However, using an air rifle for this purpose is generally not recommended due to concerns about humane killing.

Prohibition of Unnecessary Suffering

It is illegal to use air rifles in a way that causes unnecessary suffering to animals. This includes using inappropriate equipment or techniques that do not ensure a quick and humane kill. Violating these regulations can result in legal action, including fines and the revocation of hunting privileges. Hunters must stay informed and adhere to best practices to avoid such outcomes.

Humane killing guidelines are designed to ensure that animals are dispatched quickly and with minimal suffering. Here are some key principles and practices to follow for humane killing, especially when using air rifles:

1. Proper Equipment: Use an air rifle with enough energy and power for the intended quarry. Ensure that the rifle is well-maintained and accurate to increase the likelihood of a clean kill.

2. Ammunition Choice: Select the appropriate calibre and type of pellet for the animal you are targeting. Heavier pellets with good penetration are often recommended for humane kills.

3. Shot Placement: Aim for vital areas with a close shot that will result in a quick death. For most small game, this is typically the head or heart/lung area. Accurate shot placement is crucial.

4. Skill and Practice: Regularly practice shooting to improve accuracy and confidence. Being proficient with your air rifle helps ensure that you can make effective shots under field conditions.

5. Ethical Considerations: Only attempt shots that you are confident you can make. Avoid taking shots at animals that are too far away or in poor visibility conditions.

6. Legal Compliance: Adhere to all local laws and regulations regarding hunting and air rifle use. This includes understanding which species can be legally hunted and making sure you have a reasonable excuse for the shot.

7. Follow-Up: Be prepared to take a follow-up shot if the first does not result in a quick kill. Always approach the animal cautiously to ensure it is deceased.

8. Continuous Learning: Stay informed about best practices and advancements in hunting techniques and equipment. Engaging with the hunting community and training can enhance your skills and knowledge.

Conclusion

So, while shooting foxes with an air rifle is legal, it is not recommended as the choice to help with fox control. Despite certain circumstances where you can humanely kill a fox, there are many methods more viable and appropriate.

Ensure you're up-to-date with all the legal requirements so you can use your air rifle legally and safely. If you have any questions or queries regarding air guns, air rifle pellets and air rifle laws, please do not hesitate to contact us. We're here to help with your air gun and shooting needs and ensure you have the best foot forward!