what is the Law with regards to shooting pheasant with an air rifle?

[AirMad]

What absolute bull.... pheasants are fair game with an airgun! Rabbits are cleanly taken at 40 yds with head shots and modern airguns along with a good scope in the hands of a seasoned hunter can be easily take pheasants to 30 yards and beyond, head shots being a must. As long as they are in season and your permissions are in order and you are capable go for it. Very tasty they are too. There will be couple complimenting the turkey on my table this year. However you can see why shooting them with an airgun is frowned upon,they cost money to rear as captive sport for people with more money than sense. Gamekeepers really get their knickers in a twist if non payers are having a bit of sport for the pot. If they are on your permissions and it is ok by the owners then shoot them as they eat as well as rabbits. I know of several stud farms where pheasants are hated with a vengance. The clatter of them rising at the feet of thoroughbred horse has been the downfall of many a thrown jockey, and in some cases injury to bolting horses. And stud farms can be a good source for permission if they have pheasant problem.