King acts over pheasant shortage at Sandringham 

HM King Charles III has reportedly dismissed a long-serving gamekeeper at Sandringham Estate following a significant decline in pheasant numbers, jeopardising the traditional Boxing Day shoot. 

The monarch, known for his commitment to conservation and traditional countryside practices, is said to be “livid” over the situation, which may force the cancellation of the annual event in Norfolk. 

Sandringham is one of a decreasing number of wild shoots in the UK, but King Charles has resisted supplementing numbers with commercially bred pheasants to maintain the estate’s eco-friendly approach. This commitment has made it challenging to sustain adequate gamebird populations, leading to this current shortage. 

A source described the situation as a “total cock-up” and the dismissed gamekeeper was reportedly held responsible for the management lapse. 

The potential cancellation of the Boxing Day shoot, a cherished royal tradition, underscores the challenges of balancing conservation efforts with long-standing customs. 

David Pooler, National Gamekeepers’ Organisation (NGO) chairman, told Shooting Times: “Wild bird shoots are susceptible to annual fluctuations in bird numbers and therefore variations in the shootable surplus of stock. For many this is part of the appeal, but it can also be a challenge. 

“We would like to remind all NGO members that we are here to help you in whatever way we can. The Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust are also an invaluable help for anyone who needs them.” 

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