10/06/2026
🐦 NESTING BIRDS & TREE WORK – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird, or to damage, destroy or interfere with an active nest while it is being built or in use.
Can Tree Work Be Carried Out During Nesting Season?
Yes. There is no legal ban on carrying out tree work during the bird nesting season (typically March to August), but additional care and checks must be undertaken before work starts.
Our Approach
Before any work is carried out, we:
✅ Complete a wildlife assessment form.
✅ Carry out a visual inspection of the tree, hedge or vegetation for signs of nesting activity.
✅ Assess the risk of disturbing nesting birds or other protected wildlife.
✅ Stop work and establish an exclusion zone if an active nest is found.
If a Nest Is Found
Where an active nest containing eggs or dependent young is identified:
- Work affecting the nest area will be postponed.
- The nest will be left undisturbed until the birds have naturally fledged and the nest is no longer active.
- Alternative works may be considered where they will not impact the nesting birds.
Protecting Wildlife
As professional arborists, we have a responsibility to balance essential tree management with wildlife protection. Careful planning, inspections and documented wildlife checks help ensure work is carried out safely, legally and responsibly.
If you would like to get in touch with us to have a look at any trees you may need working on, please contact us via the website link in our bio