MINK IN THE UK
Since the 1950s, the American mink has become established across the UK, largely due to escapes and releases from fur farms.
IMPACT ON WILDLIFE AND LIVESTOCK
As an invasive species, the mink has had a devastating impact on native wildlife. It preys on birds such as kingfishers and has contributed to the dramatic decline of water voles—over 90% in Sussex alone. Beyond native fauna, mink also pose a threat to domestic animals, including ducks and geese, and can cause significant damage to commercial fish farms.
THE NEED FOR EFFECTIVE MINK MANAGEMENT
Controlling mink populations is vital for the conservation of native species and the protection of domestic and commercial animals. Humane and effective methods of control are essential to ensure both ecological balance and ethical responsibility.
HUMANE TRAPPING
We promote the use of humane cage trapping, which is suitable for public parks and most environments. This method is especially important in areas where there is a risk of capturing non-target species such as otters, which limits the viability of other control methods. Any non-target animals can be safely released unharmed.
To enhance monitoring, we employ wireless wildlife cameras that provide 24/7 alerts in the event of a capture or trap tampering. This ensures a quick and efficient response, minimizing stress to captured animals.
TARGETED CONTROL WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
In certain scenarios, where mink frequently visit bait stations, targeted shooting using thermal imaging and night vision may be an effective supplementary method. This approach is carefully controlled and used only when necessary to address persistent problems in specific locations.
