Protected Birds and UK Wildlife Law

Wild birds are protected by law throughout the UK. Understanding the legislation is important for pest control professionals, property owners and anyone planning bird proofing or bird management work.

In England, Scotland and Wales, the principal legislation is the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended. Northern Ireland has separate wildlife legislation. Licensing arrangements vary between nations.

What Protection Do Wild Birds Have?

It is generally an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take wild birds, or take or destroy their eggs. Nests are also protected while being built or used, with additional protection for certain species.

Some activities may be permitted under specific legal exemptions or wildlife licences.

General Licences for Bird Control in England

Natural England issues general licences allowing authorised persons to undertake certain activities involving specified bird species for defined purposes.

GL40 – Conservation Purposes

Permits specified activities involving certain wild birds to support the conservation of wild birds, flora or fauna.

GL41 – Public Health or Safety

Permits control of specified wild bird species where necessary to preserve public health or public safety, subject to licence conditions.

GL42 – Preventing Serious Damage

Permits control of specified species to prevent serious damage to livestock, crops, fisheries and other defined interests.

Each licence has specific conditions and permitted species. Check the current Natural England general licences before undertaking work.

When Can a General Licence Be Used?

General licences do not provide unrestricted permission to control birds. Activities must meet the licence's stated purpose, species restrictions and conditions, including requirements concerning alternative methods.

Non-lethal bird proofing, such as netting, spikes and post and wire, can help prevent birds accessing buildings. However, work affecting active nests may require authorisation.

When Is an Individual Licence Required?

If an activity is not covered by a general licence or another legal exemption, an individual wildlife licence may be required. This can include certain activities involving herring gulls and lesser black-backed gulls.

Read the Natural England individual licence guidance for further information.

Bird Control Laws Across the UK

The licences above apply to England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have separate licensing authorities and arrangements.