In early 2022 we published a commentary on the proposed changes to the rules for tethering birds of prey as proposed in the DEFRA Consultation on changes to the Licence obligations for Zoos

We have been trying to pin down exactly what’s happening regarding changes to the rules on tethering birds of prey for display – with little success so date.

What we know so far is that the consultation period for changes to the ‘Secretary of State’s standards of modern zoo practice‘ has now closed and draft changes to the standards are with DEFRA. 

The IRBPP contributed feedback to the consultation online, and we also encouraged other bird of prey professionals to add their comments to the consultation at the time.

The main changes of interest would appear to be surrounding the tethering of birds of prey ‘for display’ purposes, and the practicality and costs of implementation for professional Falconers.

The proposals put forward at the time of the consultation would certainly present some challenges for activities such as School educational visits and some Country Shows etc. and clarity on what’s happening is needed to help bird of prey professionals prepare.

 However, we are unlikely to see the final format of the new standards until later this year when the new standards may be released for implementation. (but no fixed timetable is yet available).

At the moment there has been no indication that AAL Licence holders (Exhibiting birds of prey) will need to comply with the new Standards (although licence holders would be able to adopt the new standards on a voluntary basis).  This is clearly an anomaly that must eventually be addressed, but again there is no clarity on when, or indeed if, this will happen

The IRBPP is currently trying to get further detail on the matter, and we will post further information if and when if can be verified as accurate.

In the meantime,… watch this space.