We are in a very busy time for nesting birds, and the Wiltshire Rural Crime Team would like to raise awareness around the legislation and responsibilities that we all have at this time of year. 

All wild birds are protected and Schedules were created to highlight their level of protection. Schedule 1 species receive the tightest of protections, with Schedule 4 species being at the lower end of the scale (but are still protected). Birds like Bitterns, Barn Owls and Ospreys fall under Schedule 1, as well as other species that are low in numbers, threatened, or in decline. Dog owners are advised to keep their dogs on leads when walking in the countryside to prevent disturbing ground-nesting birds. 

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, it is an offence if a person: 
•    Intentionally kills, injures or takes wild birds
•    Intentionally takes, damages or destroy a wild bird’s nest while it’s being used or built
•    Intentionally takes or destroys a wild bird’s egg
•    Possesses, controls or transports live or dead wild birds, or parts of them, or their eggs
•    Sells wild birds or puts them on display for sale
•    Uses prohibited methods to kill or take wild birds
•    Intentionally or recklessly disturbs any wild bird listed on Schedule 1 while it is nest building, or at a nest containing eggs or young, or disturbs the dependent young of such a bird

We ask for people to educate themselves and be respectful around our wild birds. More information can be found on the RSPB website.