CALL 999 Cub hunting is totally illegal. If you see hunters sitting on their horses, surrounding a wood, or any dense area (maybe a cornfield) where foxes might have their dens, call 999 immediately. They are cub hunting. If you can (and you are not endangering yourself) take a photo, and make sure you know the location.

Write to your MP. Ask her/him whether they are aware of cub hunting, and whether they plan to do anything about it. Tell them how horrified you are. Even if you know that your MP is pro hunting, send them an email.

Join AAF Joining AAF is free. We campaign, educate and and outreach. To make a volunteer enquiry, click here https://www.actionagainstfoxhunting.org

Sign this petition https://www.timeforchangecoalition.co.uk

To find out a bit more about cub hunting, please scroll down

Cub Hunting in the UK: Unveiling the Illegal Practice Known as “Autumn Hunting”

Cub hunting, also referred to as cubbing, is an illegal activity in the UK that occurs prior to the official fox hunting season. The practice involves the training of hunting hounds to target and kill young fox cubs. While those engaged in this activity may attempt to disguise it as teaching hounds to follow an artificial trail or simply exercising the hounds, it remains an illegal and inhumane practice. This short article aims to shed light on cub hunting, explain its illegality, and provide readers with pointers to recognise and report such activities.

Cub hunting, typically takes place during the autumn months before the official fox hunting season begins. During these outings, mounted riders often surround fields, woodlands, or copses, a practice commonly known as being “on point.” Their role is to observe any fox cubs that may attempt to flee the area. If any cubs are spotted, they may make noises or create disturbances to drive the cubs back towards the hounds, to give the hounds a better chance of killing them.

Cub hunting is illegal. The Hunting Act of 2004  prohibits the hunting of wild mammals with dogs. This legislation was intended to prevent unnecessary suffering caused by traditional hunting practices, including cub hunting.

Recognising potential instances of cub hunting can be challenging, but there are some pointers to consider:

Suspicious Activity: Be vigilant for groups of mounted riders strategically positioned around fields, woodlands, or copses, often creating a perimeter or encircling the area.
Timing: Cub hunting generally takes place during the early morning or late evening hours when foxes and their young are more active.
Disturbed Wildlife: Observe any signs of disturbance or fleeing wildlife, such as fox cubs or adult foxes appearing agitated or hastily moving away from the area.
Unusual Noises: Pay attention to any unusual noises or commotion, such as the sound of hounds baying or the presence of horns or whips being used to control the dogs.

If you suspect cub hunting is taking place, you need to ring 999 immediately. Give as as much  information as possible, including the location, time, descriptions of individuals involved, and any photographic or video evidence you may have captured.

By remaining vigilant and reporting potential instances of cub hunting, we can contribute to the enforcement of the law and protect young fox cubs from the suffering inflicted by inhumane practices. It is our shared responsibility to raise awareness, promote the welfare of wildlife, and ensure compliance with legislation aimed at safeguarding animals in our society.