"When it comes to pruning or cutting down trees in your garden, most homeowners are aware of the need to respect Tree Preservation Orders. But do you know the other law that could lead to fines or even prosecution if you break it? It's particularly relevant during the Autumn months when the creatures it's designed to protect are entering their peak mating season. But, not knowing about it doesn't excuse you if you do break it."
"The Wildife & Countryside Act 1981 is a piece of legislation designed to protect certain wildlife species, including flora and fauna. It's a general law that covers much of the UK. And, while one of the creatures it protects is commonly associated with roofs and rafters, there's a chance bats could be roosting in your trees too. Think the risk is small? You could be wrong, according to Jonathan Stuttard, technical manager and herpetofauna lead at ecology consultancy, Arbtech."
""Although most of the 17 species of UK bats have associations with trees, there are also some tree and woodland roosting specialist bats," adds James Allitt, senior arboriculturist at Norfolk Wildlife Trust. "These include Barbastelle, Bechstien's, Daubenton's Leisler's and Noctule bats. Some of these are very rare and are confined to areas of woodland and rely on suitable foraging ground.""
The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 protects certain wildlife species across much of the UK, including bats. Many UK bat species commonly roost in trees, and some are woodland-roosting specialists such as Barbastelle, Bechstien's, Daubenton's, Leisler's and Noctule bats. Autumn months coincide with peak bat mating season, increasing the risk of disturbing roosts. Homeowners pruning or cutting trees can inadvertently break wildlife protection laws and face fines or prosecution. Tree Preservation Orders are well known, but wildlife protection under this Act is an independent legal requirement that must be considered before tree work.
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