AS NESTING season begins for many birds, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime (PAW Scotland) are reminding the public to be aware that birds are vulnerable at this time of year and destroying or damaging a nest while in use is illegal.
Birds’ nests are damaged by tree felling or pruning as well as building work. Blocking entry holes to nests within houses is another common threat, as is damage to nests in house eaves or on sites being cleared for development. Dogs can be a risk if not under control.
Penalties for destroying, damaging, taking, obsructing or interfering in any wild bird nest while it is being built or in use can be a fine of up to £5,000 and/or six months’ jail.