Tree services & UK nesting season.
Understanding Nesting Season: Legislation & Best Practice for Tree Work in the UK
By Hartlebury Hardwoods LTD.
Introduction:
For tree service businesses, balancing essential woodland management with wildlife protection is critical especially during the UK nesting season. As a responsible timber and tree management company, Hartlebury Hardwoods LTD is committed to ensuring all operations comply with environmental legislation while maintaining best working practices to protect birds and habitats.
Every experienced team has been there, nesting season can be a challenging time for all of us in the industry.
This post explores the legal obligations around nesting season, common pitfalls tree service businesses face, and key observations from our experience that could spark wider conversation within the industry.
When Is Nesting Season?
The primary bird nesting season in the UK typically runs from March to August, though some species may nest outside of this window. Because of overlapping breeding patterns and climate variations, tree work during this period requires heightened diligence.
Legislation You Need to Know:
The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
This is the cornerstone legislation protecting nesting birds in the UK. Key points include:
It is illegal to:
-Intentionally kill, injure, or take any wild bird.
-Damage, destroy, or disturb a nest while it is in use or being built.
-Take or destroy eggs.
Offences can result in:
-Unlimited fines.
-Up to six months imprisonment per offence.
Other Relevant Legislation:
The Countryside and Rights of Way Act (CRoW) 2000
The Hedgerows Regulations 1997
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and Conservation Area protections which may have additional restrictions.
Knowing not just the what but also the why behind these laws helps underpin best practice.
Best Working Practices During Nesting Season:
1. Conduct Thorough Nesting Surveys:
Inspect all trees and hedgerows for active nests before work begins. For larger sites, consider ecological surveys from qualified ecologists.
2. Adjust Work Schedules:
Delay non-urgent work involving felling, heavy pruning, or hedgerow management until outside nesting season.
If urgent work is required (e.g., hazardous trees), document findings, consult with authorities if necessary, and work around active nests.
3. Train Staff on Nest Identification:
Many nests are not obvious. Training allows crews to recognise signs of nesting birds and understand their responsibilities.
4. Maintain Clear Records:
Documenting site assessments and ecological considerations can protect your business in the event of disputes or inspections.
5. Public Communication:
Display signage or inform local communities when work is necessary during sensitive seasons to pre-empt concerns.
Pitfalls & Common Issues:
While legislation is clear, real-world application can be challenging. Some pitfalls include:
- Assuming absence of nests outside peak months: Some species, like pigeons, can nest year-round.
- Misidentifying nests: Old or inactive nests may still receive protection.
- Lack of documentation: Without records of pre-work checks, businesses risk enforcement action if challenged.
- Public perception: Tree work during nesting season often triggers concern from local communities unaware of surveys or necessary exemptions.
These grey areas highlight why transparency and due diligence are key.
Observation and industry conversation:
There’s ongoing debate within the industry about:
- The impact of climate change on nesting cycles, making defined periods less predictable.
- Balancing essential safety work with nesting protections when hazardous trees pose risk during breeding season.
- The need for clearer guidelines for smaller tree service businesses who may not have in-house ecologists.
Have you faced challenges with nesting season work or found innovative solutions that respect wildlife while meeting client needs? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
Conclusion:
Operating legally and ethically during nesting season protects wildlife, preserves business integrity, and maintains public trust. At Hartlebury Hardwoods LTD, we remain committed to safeguarding birds while delivering professional tree care, ensuring sustainable woodland management for years to come.
Get In Touch:
For more information on our tree services or how we operate during sensitive seasons, contact us at.
- Hartleburyhardwoods@outlook.com
Let’s build a thriving woodland environment together responsibly.
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