Bird Nesting Season and Tree Work Rules in the UK: What Property Owners Need to Know

As spring approaches, so does the start of bird nesting season in the UK. Between 1st of April and 31st of July, birds become more active, building nests and raising their young. For property owners who are planning tree work, it's important to understand the regulations surrounding this period to ensure that your plans align with wildlife protection laws. In this blog, we’ll explain how bird nesting season affects tree work and what you need to know to stay compliant and protect local wildlife. 

What is Bird Nesting Season? 

In the UK, bird nesting season typically runs from early March to late August. During this time, many bird species, including sparrows, robins, and blackbirds, build nests in trees and shrubs to raise their young. However, different bird species may begin nesting at different times within this window, and some may even nest outside of the typical season. 

As a property owner, understanding when bird nesting season is and how it may impact tree work is crucial to avoid legal and ecological issues. 

Legal Protections for Birds 

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, birds and their nests are protected by law. It is illegal to intentionally disturb or destroy a bird’s nest, eggs, or young. This includes tree surgery work that could harm or disturb active nests. For property owners considering tree pruning or removal, it’s important to know that any tree with an active bird’s nest cannot be worked on during the nesting season. 

Key things to know: 

● Disturbing an active bird’s nest is illegal and could result in fines. 

● Work that could harm nesting birds, including cutting branches or removing trees with active nests, must be postponed. 

● If you suspect a nest, tree work must wait until the nest is no longer in use. How Bird Nesting Season Affects Tree Work  If you’re planning to have tree work done during the nesting season, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind: 

1. Pre-Work Inspection 

Before any tree work can begin, a professional tree surgeon will perform a careful inspection of the tree. This inspection checks for signs of bird nesting, such as twigs and feathers, or even adult birds in the area. If an active nest is found, work will need to be delayed until the nest is abandoned. 

2. When Can Tree Work Be Done? 

If an active bird’s nest is found, tree work should not take place until after the nesting season has ended and the birds have fledged. This typically means waiting until the

end of August or early September. In some cases, a tree surgeon can offer advice on how to manage your trees in the interim. 

3. Urgent Tree Work During Nesting Season 

There are instances where urgent tree work may be needed, such as dealing with a tree that is a safety hazard. In these cases, tree surgeons can apply for a special permit (known as a derogation) from local authorities to carry out necessary work. However, this is only granted for genuine safety concerns and after ensuring that no nests will be disturbed. 

Best Practices for Property Owners 

● Plan Tree Work in Advance: If possible, try to schedule tree surgery outside of bird nesting season. This ensures that there are no legal or ecological conflicts and avoids delays. 

● Communicate with Your Tree Surgeon: Always inform your tree surgeon about your tree maintenance needs and be aware of any potential bird nesting in your trees. A professional tree surgeon will know how to check for nests and handle the situation properly.  ● Be Patient if Nests Are Found: If your tree surgeon discovers an active nest, remember that this is a natural process, and the birds must be given time to raise their young. While it may delay your planned work, it's important to respect the wildlife around you. 

● Consider Alternative Tree Care Solutions: If you need tree work urgently but find that nesting birds are present, your tree surgeon might suggest temporary solutions such as pruning less critical branches or other methods that won’t interfere with the nest. 

Why It’s Important to Follow These Rules 

Birds play a vital role in the ecosystem by helping with pest control, pollination, and seed dispersal. By adhering to the bird nesting season rules, you’re not only complying with the law but also contributing to the protection of local wildlife. Ensuring that your tree work is done at the right time supports a healthy environment for both your property and the birds that call it home. 

Conclusion 

When it comes to tree work and bird nesting season, it’s essential to be informed and prepared. Whether you’re planning to prune, remove, or care for your trees, working with a professional tree surgeon ensures that you follow the right procedures to protect wildlife. By being aware of the nesting season and the legal protections in place for birds, you can make sure that your tree care plans align with nature and the law. 

If you’re unsure about the timing of your tree work or need advice on managing your trees during the nesting season, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional tree surgeon. We’re here to guide you through the process, ensuring the safety of both your trees and the birds that inhabit them.