I’ve seen a number of people out with their chain saws looking to trim the hedge with their No.1 tool 😉
In the UK, bird nesting season generally runs from 1 March to 31 August. During this time, it is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to intentionally damage or destroy an active bird’s nest while it is in use or being built.
Intentionally damaging or destroying an active bird’s nest while cutting a hedge carries a penalty of an unlimited fine and up to six months in prison.
Fines can be calculated per bird, per nest, or per egg damaged. If a single hedge cut destroys a nest containing four eggs, you can face separate penalties for each!
If you must trim your hedge, borrow your gran’s secateurs and just trim the long bits in a very calm, non lumberjack type way and the world will be a much more balanced place.
Thank you.
Jon
