Warning: Gardeners in UK Face Hefty Fines for Trimming Hedges During Nesting SeasonWarning: Gardeners in UK Face Hefty Fines for Trimming Hedges During Nesting Season Amidst the flurry of spring gardening, UK gardeners are being cautioned against trimming their hedges during the nesting season. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 prohibits damaging or destroying wild bird nests, carrying potential penalties such as fines or imprisonment. From March to September, birds construct nests in garden hedges to raise their young. Experts emphasize the importance of preserving these nests, as the decline in native bird species has prompted calls for their protection. By refraining from hedge trimming during this period, gardeners can aid in bird conservation. Before trimming hedges, it’s crucial to inspect for signs of nesting activity, such as birds entering or exiting the hedge or the presence of twigs and leaves around the base. If nests are discovered, it’s advisable to postpone trimming until after the nesting season. For those eager to trim their overgrown hedges, a thorough inspection for nesting birds is essential. If no nests are found, trimming can proceed. However, to attract more birds to gardens, gardeners can consider planting a diverse range of hedges. By incorporating a variety of species and heights, they can cater to different nesting preferences and enhance biodiversity.
Gardeners in the UK are being warned that they could face hefty fines if they trim their hedges now. Experts say the task may be necessary but it is something to avoid for now.
The warning comes from GardeningExpress.co.uk because cutting hedges could result in a fine, as it is nesting season, the Express reports.
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, damaging or destroying a wild bird’s nest while it is in use or under construction is illegal, with potential penalties including an unlimited fine or even imprisonment. With numbers of native birds such as the song thrush, lark, lapwing and house sparrow in decline, experts are calling on nature-loving Britons to help protect these species in their gardens.
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The breeding season runs from March to September and birds such as sparrows, blue tits and blackbirds build nests in garden hedges to raise their young. Cutting hedges during this time can destroy nests and leave chicks vulnerable.
By leaving hedges undisturbed, gardeners can help birds thrive, which helps control pests, pollinate plants, and disperse seeds throughout the garden. If you do need to trim your hedges, experts advise checking carefully for nesting birds first.
Gardeners have been advised to look out for signs of nesting, such as birds flying in and out of hedges and twigs or leaves strewn about. Chris Bonnett of GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “The UK’s bird population is in decline, so protecting native species in our gardens has never been more important.
“Now nesting is key. Protecting those nests and the newly hatched chicks is vital to ensuring the longevity of the species and maintaining a balanced ecosystem in the garden. One of the easiest ways to do this is to simply avoid cutting garden hedges during the nesting season.”
Mr Bonnett also warned those who can’t resist trimming their hedges. He said: “If your hedge is overgrown and needs trimming urgently, check there are no nests or breeding birds before you start – but if you can wait, do so.”
For green-fingered enthusiasts looking to attract more birds to their garden, planting a variety of hedges can be helpful. Mr Bonnet said: “The more species you have, the more species you will attract. Birds prefer to nest in a wide hedge. For birds that nest higher up, add some taller species to your planting scheme.”
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