Tree And Hedge Trimming During Nesting Season : What You Need To Know

Nesting chicks in a Leylandii

If you live in Kent, you know it’s absolutely jam packed with trees, hedges, fields, shrubs and all manner of greenery. The bird song that calls out every day during the summer is testament to just how much avian wildlife can be found in our county. You’ve probably heard about nesting season, and if you are wondering how that affects you, your trees, and your options regarding having work done to them, you’ve come to the right place. 

Is it an offence to disturb a nesting bird? Yes.

Does that mean work can’t be carried out if their is a nest? No. 

Read on to find out exactly what can be done 

What Exactly Is Bird Nesting Season And Why Should I Care?

If you require tree and hedge trimming during nesting season, here's what you need to know, bird nesting season runs from about March to August, when birds of all species invade the tree tops and the hedges and begin building their nests, popping out eggs, looking after the chicks, and eventually sending them off out into the world. 

Both the law, and our shared environmental responsibilities, have a lot to say about the works you can or should do in this time. 

Bear in mind that birds may start building their nests as early as February and stay as late as September, and you can see why three quarts of the year we have to be conscious of these occupants. 

The Wildlife And Countryside Act 1981 makes it an offence to deliberately disturb these nests , or a nest that is in the process of being built. It is an offence to disturb birds that are actively nesting. And it is an offence to remove or prune branches in a way that would disturb a nesting bird. 

Are Pigeons Included In This? Absolutely Yes. Many people have suggested to us that they believe pigeons aren’t included in this, they absolutely are and it is certainly an offence to disturb a nesting one. 

Who Gets The Fine? 

This depends somewhat on the situation, but certainly liable is the person carrying out the work! Whether that be a tree surgeon, gardener, handyman, or homeowner, the person carrying out the work can be held accountable. 

What many don’t realise is that the homeowner can also be held liable if they were aware of the nest and asked for work to go ahead anyway. 

Can Work Still Be Done During Nesting Season?

Absolutely. As long as there is care and attention paid, and considerate actions undertaken, you can absolutely work around nesting birds. 

How to Go About it? 

1. Pre-inspect the tree, hedge, or bush. Take a walk around the area you’d like worked on. Look for spaces where birds may fly in and out, look for what appears to be the same bird flying in and out of the same space, and look for dark patches amongst the branches. This is by no means a fool proof method, but by watching a tree over a day or two you can often get a pretty good idea of the presence of nesting birds. 

2. Consider delaying works. If the works in question are simple, routine maintenance works and can be held off, that’s the easiest path available to you. Sometimes that’s simply not an option, the works in question are a safety issue or causing some exterior problem.

3. Speak to a Professional. It is always best to speak to a tree care professional who understands and adheres to best ecological practises. They should be able to give you an understanding of what can be achieved and whether it’s even possible to undertake the works without disturbing the nesting bird. 

4. Proceed with caution. Make sensible informed decisions based ont he information you have and work to address the issues without disturbing the nests. That’s the best outcome for all involved. 

We at Southfleet Tree Services take our stewardship of the land seriously, we believe that making sure to protect and preserve Kent’s rich natural heritage is at the forefront of our work. 

If you are in the Southeast and unsure of how to proceed in the presence of a nest, give us a call and we would be happy to come out and advise you on your course of action.