02/09/2026
National wildlife day is this Friday and today we are focusing on providing education on the law regarding UK wildlife.
Did you know that a lot of our UK wildlife is protected by law?
The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 is the primary legal framework protecting many animals, plants, and habitats in the UK.
Under this act, all wild birds, their eggs, and active nests are protected. It is illegal to harm, take them, or damage their nests.
Some animals like badgers, bats, and otters also cannot be harmed or trapped. Their homes and resting places are also protected from damage or blocking.
A select group of animals like Badgers also have their own laws specifically protecting them. The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 prevents cruelty to badgers and badger setts across England and Wales.
Breaking these laws and disturbing wildlife if these ways, can open the person responsible to prosecution.
Protecting our wildlife starts with understanding it. When we know the law, we can help give the wildlife around us the protection it deserves. 🐾🌿