Scottish seabird hunt cancelled for first time in 400 years

The Scottish seabird hunt, known as the guga hunt, has been cancelled for the first time in four centuries due to a decline in gannet numbers, organisers said.

Brit Brief 03/08/2026 20:50

Scottish seabird hunt cancelled for first time in 400 years — Seabird hunt cancelled in Scotland for first time in 400 years

The traditional Scottish seabird hunt, known as the guga hunt, has been called off for the first time in 400 years, organisers have said.

Reasons for cancellation

The cancellation comes after a significant decline in the number of gannets, the birds hunted for their meat and oil. The hunt, which takes place on the remote island of Sula Sgeir, has been a centuries-old tradition.

Organisers cited the dwindling gannet population as the primary reason for the unprecedented cancellation.

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Tradition and impact

The guga hunt has been an integral part of the local culture, with participants travelling to the island to harvest young gannets. The decision to cancel the hunt marks a historic break with tradition.

This is the first time in 400 years that the hunt has been cancelled, highlighting the severity of the situation.