We understand the hardship that bTB causes in the farming community and the need to find the right mechanisms to control the disease. However, badgers are not the primary cause of the spread of bTB in cattle, and the Wildlife Trust believe the badger cull is not the answer. Scientific evidence demonstrates that culling is likely to be ineffective in fighting the disease and, worse still, risks making the problem even worse.   

We have long campaigned for an evidence-based and scientifically reliable approach to be developed to counteract the risk posed to cattle by bTB. The announcement that work to accelerate the introduction of an effective cattle vaccine is good news for the farming industry and our wildlife, and offers the best long-term way to reduce bTB in the cattle population.  

Our dedicated team continue to work with landowners and our partners to vaccinate badgers. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust continue to urge the government to end the cull, accelerate the roll out of a cattle vaccine and implement livestock measures.