Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has rejected criticism by gamekeepers over plans for a deer cull.
Peter Fraser, vice-chairman of the Scottish Gamekeepers' Association, said he was shocked by SNH plans to complete a cull of nearly 700 females and calves in the Angus Glens to "protect the natural environment". He claims such a cull would endanger the ability of surviving deer to last out the winter.
However, a spokesman for SNH said: "We are aware of potential welfare issues with culling hinds in heavy snow. Our advice has been to cull selectively and humanely."
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