Nesting bird Information and the Law (Relevant information only)
All wild birds in the UK and their nests and eggs are
protected by law. The definition of a 'wild bird'’
under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 as amended is a species which is
ordinarily resident in or is a visitor to 'the European Territory of any Member
State' (of the EU). This is in line with the EC Birds Directive and makes it
illegal to be in possession in the UK of any eggs or birds of any species taken
from the wild in another Member State.
It is an offence
to: - Kill,
injure or take any wild bird.
- Take,
damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built.
- Take or
destroy the egg of any wild bird.
- Have in
one's possession or control any wild bird (dead or alive) or any part of a wild
bird which has been taken in contravention of the Act or the Protection of
Birds Act 1954.
- Disturb
any wild bird listed on Schedule 1 while it is nest building, or at a nest containing eggs or young,
or disturb the dependent young of such a bird.
Penalties for breaking the law can include large
fines, imprisonment, and seizure of equipment. Both the company and the
individuals can be held liable.
Nick Weaver Ecology offers a full range of protected species surveys, licensing and mitigation. For more information please contact us.
Tel: 07886 803046 | 