Protection Laws
The provisions of the Protection of Birds Act, 1954, and its later amendments. Basically all species of birds, together with their nests, eggs and young, are protected at all times in the United Kingdom, except for certain species regarded as agricultural pests and game bird species during the latter's open season. In addition vulnerable and rare breeders (those listed in the first part of the First Schedule of the Act) are protected by special penalties. Sale of the eggs of wild birds, even of common species, is illegal, as is the trapping of birds, except by authorised persons such as those licensed for ringing. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds publishes material dealing with these laws and their enforcement. Similar regulations exist in the Republic of Ireand.From Peter Weaver's Birdwatcher's Dictionary
Copyright © 1981 by Peter Weaver