Trail hunting in the nation’s forests

Trail hunting in the nation’s forests

The Hunting Act 2004 made it illegal to hunt wild mammals with dogs in England. Trail hunting, which involves following an artificially laid scent, was promoted as an alternative activity before the Act and remains legal.

Some trail hunting groups previously operated on land we manage. These activities were controlled through permissions and licences, in line with an agreement with the Masters of Foxhounds Association (MFHA).

Trail hunting in the nation’s forests is currently suspended. We will keep our position under review and update this web page if anything changes.

Clean boot hunting (including drag hunting and bloodhound hunting), which does not involve following a wild animal, does continue in line with an agreement with the Masters of Draghounds and Bloodhounds Association (MDBA).

Reporting concerns

We recognise that visitors may occasionally have concerns about activities taking place on land we manage.

If you believe illegal activity is occurring, you should report this to your local police and provide them with any relevant evidence.

If you have contacted the police, please also notify us and include a copy of the information you have provided.