Wildlife and trees
A vital balance
Trees and hedges can be an important home for wildlife. Some animals that are often found using them are protected - it is illegal to disturb, damage or destroy a bat roost or any active bird nest.
If birds or bats are using your trees or hedges, you should obtain a survey from an ecological consultant in order to confirm it is safe to do the work before any tree or hedge cutting is carried out. You may need to apply for a license to do your proposed tree work. To find a local ecological consultant click here
Correctly managed hedgerows can provide valuable shelter, nest sites and food sources for a wide range of animals and birds. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) provides information on wildlife-friendly farming, including hedgerow management and offers advice on managing garden hedges and the law
For further information on bats and birds, contact
or call the Trust on 0845 1300 228
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
or call the RSPB on 01767 693 690
