Trail hunting could be outlawed in England and Wales following government concerns that the activity is being used to conceal illegal fox hunting.
The practice involves hounds following a pre-laid animal scent, with riders on horseback accompanying the dogs, similar in appearance to traditional hunts.
Hunting wild mammals with dogs was made illegal under the Hunting Act in 2004, which banned the pursuit of animals such as foxes.
Trail hunting has remained lawful because it does not explicitly involve the killing of animals. However, the government has said there are growing concerns that the activity is being misused.
Baroness Hayman, Environment Minister, said: “There is evidence that trail hunting is being used as a smokescreen for the hunting of wild animals, and that’s not acceptable.”
She added: “We are working out the best approach to take the ban forward and will run a consultation to seek views.”
Trail hunting has increased in popularity in recent years, with campaigners warning that other wildlife may be put at risk if hounds stray onto unintended scents.
Scotland has already introduced a ban on trail hunting.
The proposed changes will form part of a new animal welfare strategy, which is expected to be published on Monday.
That strategy is also set to include measures such as banning snare traps, introducing a closed season for hare hunting and improving welfare standards for pets and farm animals.
A public consultation on banning trail hunting is due to begin next year.
