The Law, Wildlife and Gardening

Wild Birds: It is an offence, with certain exceptions, to damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built, or to intentionally take or destroy the egg of any wild bird. The RSPB have further information.

Wild Flowers: It is illegal to uproot any wild flower without the permission of the owner or occupier of the land, and it is illegal to pick, uproot, collect the seed or sell any of a set list of particularly rare or vulnerable species.

Trees: Ensure you are up-to-date with any tree preservation orders that might be in place. Preservation orders not only prohibit trees from being removed – they can also determine whether you are permitted to cut branches, so be careful.