Cormorant Welfare in UK Wetlands: Management Conflict and Conservation

Cormorants have recovered strongly in UK wetlands but face lethal control licences at fishery sites, creating welfare and ethical tensions.

Key Facts

UK cormorant population has increased from under 5000 to over 25000 breeding pairs since the 1970s
They are protected under UK and EU law but licenced control at fisheries is permitted
Cormorants consume substantial quantities of fish at trout fisheries and river sites
Lethal control requires Natural England licence and is meant to be a last resort
Non-lethal deterrents including scaring devices and netting are alternatives to shooting

Welfare Considerations

Cormorants subject to licenced shooting experience acute trauma. Wounded birds that are not immediately killed suffer prolonged pain and distress. The welfare case for non-lethal deterrents is strong where alternatives are practically feasible. Cormorants, as long-lived birds with complex social behaviours, are welfare-significant individuals. The policy tension between protecting a recovering species and managing genuine conflicts with recreational fishing requires careful evidence-based management. Welfare-responsible management prioritises non-lethal control and demonstrates genuine need before licenced killing.

What You Can Do

Support non-lethal deterrent systems at fisheries vulnerable to cormorant predation
Advocate for evidence-based licensing criteria for cormorant control
Back Natural England guidance requiring non-lethal deterrents be tried first
Encourage fishery management that reduces vulnerability rather than lethal control
Report any suspected illegal killing of cormorants to the police or RSPB