§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will list the(a) number and (b) species of non-target animals which have been caught in cage traps set for badgers in the TB trial cull; if he will indicate (i) the number which were injured but released, (ii) the number which (A) were found dead and (B) needed to be dispatched as a result of their injuries and (iii) the nature of the injuries; and if he will make a statement. [120775]
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 4 May 2000]: In trial operations to date 373 non-target animals and birds have been captured, of which 336 were released uninjured. For the remainder the information requested is as follows:
Species Number found dead Number found injured and despatched Nature of injuries Grey Squirrel 5 10 caught in mesh bars of trap Pheasant 5 9 head injuries Rook 2 1 wing/leg damage Jay 1 3 wing/leg damage Fox 0 1 serious mange No injured animals were released.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has for the badger culling trial to observe a closed season; and if he will make a statement. [120776]
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 4 May 2000]: The badger culling trial incorporates a closed season from 1 February to 30 April inclusive. During this period no trapping or culling takes place.