THE British countryside could fast become a graveyard for wild animals if the Government gets its way.

Readers may be interested to hear that a decision on killing thousands of badgers is expected in the next few weeks.

They could soon be under fire – quite literally – in vast tracts across Britain in a misplaced attempt to control the cattle disease bTB.

The question has to be as to why we, as a nation, are persecuting our natural heritage rather than cherishing and protecting it?

We hear much talk about 'culling', but this is a misnomer.

'Culling' is a term used for sick and injured animals – but the majority of these animals are likely to be well and disease free.

As it is, badgers – and other wild animals – are set to be the scapegoats for land mismanagement and intensified meat and dairy farming practices.

In almost every instance it is man that has caused the problem and wildlife that pays the price.

Please get involved in the campaign to stop Britain's wildlife being blamed for poor agricultural policy and political favouritism.

Visit www.viva.org.uk/badgers or phone 0117 944 1000 to find out how you can help.

Justin Kerswell

Viva! campaigns manager, Bristol.