Wildlife Crimewatch Birds and the law
The main law affecting wild birds is the Wildlife and
Countryside Act, 1981 Part 1. This has been modified by
subsequent law in this country and in Europe. In particular, the
definition of a wild bird has been extended to
include any species that is 'ordinarily resident in, or a visitor to,
the "European Territory of any member of the E.U.". This
makes it illegal to be in possession of eggs or birds from any member
state of the European Union.
This Act does not apply to Poultry or Game, which are covered by their own act that gives them full protection in the close season.
All wild birds, their eggs and nests are protected by these laws. Certain exemptions are available by license which may be applied for from DEFRA.
The main issues affecting wild birds in this country are:
- Egg collecting. Egg collecting of rare or endangered species is particularly dangerous where the survival of individuals can be very significant to the overall numbers in the wild. Even the taking of a single egg from a clutch can disturb the parents, with the possibility of the abandonment of the nest. Egg collectors may be required to prove that they have lawfully obtained the eggs in their collection.
- Taking of birds. Wild birds of all kinds can not be captured without the appropriate licenses. Particularly vulnerable are finches and other coloured birds taken to show and hawk and falcon chicks taken to raise for hunting. Collectors must be able to prove that birds are captive bred, and have the appropriate rings. DNA tests have been used to check the parentage of rare chicks and adult birds.
- Harrassing of raptors. There are cases of poison baits set out to kill birds of prey, the shooting of harriers, and various other methods used to persecute hunting birds that are believed to endanger game.
