Gardeners are being urged to exercise caution this May, as peak bird nesting season begins. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offence to damage or destroy an active bird's nest, potentially leading to severe fines.
Noah Mabey, Senior Gardener at Thornbridge Hall and Horticultural Advisor to Platinum Spas, warned that heavy pruning should be avoided until nesting season ends in September. He advised checking hedges and shrubs thoroughly before any cutting, as nests are often hidden deep within foliage.
Even small gardens can harbour nesting birds, Mabey noted, recalling a blackbird's nest he discovered near his potting bench. Lighter tasks like deadheading flowers are safe, but gardeners must remain vigilant to avoid disturbing nests.
Additionally, pruning neighbours' plants requires care: you have a common law right to cut branches up to the boundary line, but cannot trespass or damage the tree's health. Trees with Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) or in conservation areas require council permission.
