A UK ban on shooting crows and pigeons caused such uproar that it was overturned within days.

Natural England last Tuesday revoked three licences that allowed farmers to shoot “pest birds” such as crows, Canada geese, gulls and pigeons.

The move was in response to a campaign by environmental group Wild Justice, a group spearheaded by well-known BBC wildlife presenter, Chris Packham.

Damage

There was a massive outcry from farmers and countryside organisations, who highlighted the damage done by the birds to crops and livestock.

The furore resulted in Natural England reversing its position within days.

It announced that those who need to control wild birds could do so, for example where crows cause harm to new lambs, could do so without applying for an individual licence.