Scotland's 400-Year-Old Guga Hunt Cancelled After NatureScot Refuses 2026 Licence

NatureScot, Scotland's nature body, refused a 2026 licence for the Sula Sgeir guga hunt — the first cancellation in 400 years. New population modelling found a possible adverse impact on gannets even at a reduced limit of 500 birds, well below the traditional 2,000. The hunt, legally recognised under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, remains eligible for future licensing.