rhillco

completely agree! (with your last comment). If as you're saying you are shooting within the Powhillon SPA/SAC then all we can say is WWT have gone soft........

because the Barnacle geese didn't arrive back until 16 September................

You could cross Powhillon if you get the current tenant farmers permission. Problem is once you get out to Powhillon's merse you are in an SPA/SAC that was designated for Barnacle geese and if you disturb them the WWT can and have done in the past, prosecuted those caught shooting. SPA designation: http://www.jncc.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=1980 The whole secrecy thing around that part of the Solway is because the BASC and Solway Wildfowlers Association have an agreement with WWT to restrict and not promote wildfowling in the area. SWA and BASC agreement: http://www.powhillonfarm.c

Not advisable however as you'll be under the watchful eye of the WWT tower and that entire area is designated as an SPA therefore your cheeks might well be getting hauled off to sit on a jail bed for disturbing the barnacles..... http://www.powhillonfarm.co.uk/shootingtrl.htm

You could always ask one of the local farmers if they have an issue with Barnacle geese and they could apply for a licence and employ your services to shoot them. Farmers can obtain the licences under the derogations that exist in the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 to shoot to prevent serious damage to agricultural crops. In the past the Government refused farmers these licences but growing pressure and the fact that the Svalbard Barnacle Goose population numbers have exploded from 1350 in 1947 to over 23000 today means you'll be allowed to shoot a limited number. You won't be allowed to