Proof first. Licensed control only where lawful, justified and necessary.
Wild-bird protection and licensing differ across the UK. UKBC designs around non-lethal exclusion first and checks the relevant national rules for any action affecting birds, nests or eggs.
Exclusion and deterrence should avoid harming birds.
The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 protects wild birds, nests in use or being built, and eggs in England, Wales and Scotland, with separate legislation applying in Northern Ireland.
Licensing frameworks and permitted species/purposes are nation-specific and are updated. Any control affecting birds, nests or eggs must be checked against the current rules for the site.
England
Natural England general and individual licences. Current licence conditions must be checked before action.
Wales
Natural Resources Wales publishes its own general licences and species conditions.
Scotland
NatureScot publishes Scottish general licences and site-based conditions.
Northern Ireland
DAERA/NIEA licensing operates under Northern Ireland wildlife legislation and annual general licences.