The badger cull figures for 2023 have been released. They take the total number of protected badgers killed since 2012 under the policy to 230,125. Many thought it would exceed a quarter million. But in many areas, particularly in heavily culled parts of Cornwall, Devon and Dorset, shooters found it hard to reach anywhere near their minimum kill targets – they simply didn't find the badgers.
In Oxfordshire, 822 badgers died - 549 less than in 2022 and only 60 more than the county's minimum target. We think this shows the effect of years of intensive culling. Yet government is doubling down, citing a new paper written by it's own statisticians, to support plans to extend and continue the cull. One senior Oxford scientist - Professor David Macdonald - has commented publicaly on the current state of knowledge. We hope more scientists will speak out at this critical time and take part in DEFRA's formal consultation.
We’ll present our petition to Oxford University’s Scientists on Wednesday. We are SO grateful for your support – over 4000 signatures already and on course to reach 5000. Please continue to share widely - Some people need to be reminded often before they act.
Every signature counts!
We are reading all your comments. They are so moving and heartfelt. Here are some of the many addressed directly to the scientists:
"The badger cull is cruel and unscientific. The scientists originally involved in the research need to speak out to the government."
"Shame on you Oxford Uni"
"I have never seen any scientific evidence of badgers spreading bTB so I am hoping Oxford Uni can help to stop this slaughter NOW!!!!"
"I am at a loss for words. We need ALL scientists to take a stand against this cruel cull”.
"Come on Oxford do right by the badgers!"
"I'm signing because of science. Oxford University School of Biology needs to speak out."
"I can't believe that the scientists at Oxford University aren't trying harder to stop this travesty. Your reputations will not be tarnished by acknowledging that scientific knowledge moves on. Please may we implore you to accept that you now have a responsibility to save this species."
"Your scientific findings have been misused to the detriment of our wildlife, farmed animals and farmers."