Bird Control Law, UK – County Bird Control
All wildbirds – including pigeons, seagulls and other wild bird are protected by UK Law| County Bird Control
Many of us enjoy observing birds in their natural environment, but it can be problematic when they gather in large numbers in unsuitable locations.
Pigeons, starlings, and seagulls are examples of birds that can cause inconvenience if they congregate on your home, business or commercial property.
Nevertheless, any measures taken to address this issue must comply with the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), which governs the management of bird species in the UK.
At County Bird Control, all our methods for managing nuisance birds adhere to the regulations outlined in the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) and have been approved by the relevant governing bodies in England.
The law is tough on bird control but there are grounds for removal of nests or eggs.
In the United Kingdom, it is against the law to harm any wild bird species, including their nests and eggs.
Those who break this law may face prosecution and an unlimited fine. For example the illegal removal of segaull nests or eggs carries an unlimited fine and up to six months imprisonment.
See this story about such a case.
To avoid harming birds, it is best to schedule any work outside of the breeding season (March to August) and use professional bird control methods that deter birds without causing them harm.
Preventative measures such as bird netting, electronic devices, pigeon and seagull spikes, or specialist bird proofing can also help reduce the need for more complex bird control solutions and, of course, the cleaning up of bird waste.
Certain nuisance bird species can be dealt with if they pose a threat to public health and safety, air safety, or cause serious damage or disease. For example, a serious infestation of feral pigeons where public health and safety is at risk.
Only authorised and qualified individuals can remove birds listed in the General Licence.
If a pest bird species is not covered by this licence, County Bird Control can apply for a special licence on your behalf.
However, it can take time for permission to be granted so it is probably best to wait until the breeding season is over.
For long-term solutions to bird issues, it is best to seek advice from professionally qualified bird control experts such as County Bird Control
Suggestions from County Bird Control:
Before considering any lethal methods, it’s important to try discouraging nuisance birds from the area.
Below are recommended bird deterrent measures you will find helpful.
- Limiting food sources. For example, remove bird feeders for a while. Do not throw out food scraps.
- Removing old and unused nests and nesting materials once the breeding season has finished.
- Ensure rubbish/food bins are secure
- Securing entry points to prevent bird access.
General licences in England are currently issued by Natural England. You do not need to apply to use a general licence, but you are required by law to abide by their terms and conditions.
Below are links to the current general licences that are valid until 31 December 2025:
- Valid from 1 January 2024 – GL40: General licence to kill or take certain species of wild birds to conserve wild birds, flora or fauna of conservation concern
- Valid from 1 January 2024 – GL41: General licence to kill or take certain species of wild birds to preserve public health or public safety
- Valid from 1 January 2024 – GL42: General licence to kill or take certain species of wild birds to prevent serious damage
Valid until 31 December 2025
