Wild birds are protected under the law. It is illegal to: - Intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or take any wild bird
- Take, damage or destroy its nest while it is being built or in use
- Take or destroy a wild bird egg
There are only a few exceptions to this law - the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981, as amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act of 2000.
Sticking to the law
If you cut back or remove hedges, trees or other vegetation, you have to be careful not to disturb any nesting birds. They generally nest between March and August but milder winters and warmer autumns mean that the nesting season can begin earlier and last longer. Contractors and landowners who want to remove vegetation should have it surveyed first to check it is not being used by nesting birds.
Reporting offences
Please contact your local police station if you think somebody is disturbing nesting birds. Their wildlife liaison officer will discuss the matter with you. Please note the council does not have the power to take action in such cases.