RABBITS could be shot at night if a proposed change to the law in the Isle of Man gets the go-ahead.
Farmers and landowners have raised concerns that the rabbit population has become excessive, particularly in the north of the Island, and are seeking more effective ways of controlling numbers on their land.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is seeking views on proposed changes to the current rules which restrict the night-shooting of rabbits.
It said the changes have been issued after liaison with the police and the Manx National Farmers' Union to ensure current safety measures relating to guns are maintained.
General secretary of the Manx National Farmers' Union Belinda Leach said: "Rabbits are a serious agricultural pest, causing significant economic damage to crops.
"The MNFU welcomes the department's consultation on amending the current legislation to make rabbit control more effective, whilst ensuring that rigorous safety standards in the use of firearms are maintained."
A full consultation document, including a Game Act Modification Order, can obtained electronically from http://www.gov.im/consultations.gov or by contacting Edward Clague at DEFA on ed.clague@gov.im or 01624 687344. The closing date for responses is November 17.
