In Plain English
AI-generatedThe Wild Birds (Protection) Bill would strengthen protections for wild birds by tightening offences against harming or disturbing birds and their nests. It would also set out new or updated licences for activities that could affect birds and give authorities stronger powers to enforce bird protection.
Key Points
- Offences strengthened: harsher penalties for harming, killing or disturbing wild birds and nests.
- Licensing and oversight: introduces or updates licences for activities that could impact birds (e.g., construction, land management, farming).
- Enforcement and monitoring: expanded powers for police, local authorities and wildlife crime units, with better data on bird populations.
Who is affected?
Wild birds themselvesLandowners and managers (farmers, estate owners)Businesses involved in activities affecting birds (agriculture, construction, development, hunting)Bird conservation organisations and researchersEnforcement agencies (police, local authorities, wildlife crime units)General public (gardeners, birdwatchers, hikers)
Generated 21 February 2026
