Cub hunting: A cruel tradition and how you can report it

What is cub hunting?

Cub hunting, also known as 'cubbing' or 'Autumn hunting,' is a controversial and distressing practice where fox cubs are hunted by young hounds. This method serves as a brutal training ground for hounds, preparing them for the main hunting season.

Cub hunting typically begins in August and can stretch into November. The hunts occur in harvested fields and small wooded areas called 'coverts.' Unlike the more visible red coats of traditional hunts, participants often wear tweeds to blend in, conducting these activities in the quiet hours of early morning or late evening.

In these hunts, a pack of hounds, guided by the Huntsman, is sent into the covert to flush out foxes. Hunt followers strategically position themselves around the area, sometimes using vehicles to block potential escape routes. In some cases, terrier men might block underground dens, leaving the foxes with nowhere to hide. The young hounds are taught to recognise and hunt foxes, often resulting in the killing of many cubs. This training method aims to desensitise the hounds and condition them for more extensive hunts.

Spotting and reporting cub hunting

To take a stand against cub hunting, it's crucial to recognise the signs:

1. Surrounding activity: Look for groups of people and vehicles encircling small woods. These are hunt followers trying to prevent foxes from escaping.
2. Hound and Huntsman movements: Notice if a pack of hounds is being led into a covert, accompanied by individuals making noise or gestures to scare the cubs back towards the hounds.
3. Blocking tactics: Be aware of vehicles or foot followers positioned to block any escape routes for the foxes.
4. Congestion from vehicles: An unusual number of parked vehicles and horseboxes on rural roads, often causing traffic congestion, is another indicator of a hunt.

If you come across these signs and suspect illegal cub hunting, it is vital to act:

• For immediate threats or illegal activities, call the Police at 999.
• For less urgent situations, call 101. Always request an incident reference number from the police, which helps in tracking the report and any subsequent actions by us.
• Contact Animal Crimewatch as we are always here to help and expose the cruel world of cub hunting.

If it's safe, collect evidence such as vehicle registration numbers, photographs, or videos. This information can be crucial in enforcing the law and bringing perpetrators to justice.

To report incidents of cub hunting, use the following contact methods:

• Online form: League Against Cruel Sports - Animal Crimewatch
• Email: crimewatch@league.org.uk
• Phone: 0300 444 1234

By reporting these cruel practices, you're playing a vital role in protecting our wildlife and ensuring a more humane world. Together, we can end the suffering caused by cub hunting.