The 2023 mink hunt sabbing season is now underway after the Three Counties Mink Hunt were caught hunting on the River Teme near Worcester.
The hunt were located on a SSSI – a Site of Special Scientific Interest – following a search of known meets by sabs from Severn Vale, Three Counties, Herefordshire, and Cirencester Illegal Hunt Watch.
With sabs approaching the hunt from all sides, the huntsman gathered his pack and headed back to the meet, but not before the angry landowner had thrown his weight around, tried to steal cameras, and even driven at sabs in his Kawasaki buggy!
Terrier work is an integral part of illegal mink hunting, so sabs were unsurprised to see men with spades and terriers present. The Three Counties Mink Hunt are therefore ignoring the recent edict from the BHSA – their own governing body – that terriers should no longer be taken on hunts.
With just twelve hunting extremists present, this pack have clearly fallen on hard times. They were formed in 1977 from hounds donated by Border Counties Otterhounds and the Culmstock Otterhounds and were once well supported. As recently as 2019 they could muster up to forty supporters – but, as with so many hunts, those days are over.
An HSA spokesperson commented,
“Following the colder than usual spring, we believe minkhound packs around the country have only recently started their season. Now that they are underway, sab groups across the country will be making them a priority. If you are hunting mink or otters on the riverbank our message is clear – expect us.”
If you have any information on the Three Counties Mink Hunt or any other pack please contact the HSA here or via the tip off line 07443 148 426.
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