Wild birds and the law

Wild bird crime

Egg collecting

Adult stone-curlew at nest with eggs

It has been illegal to take the eggs of most wild birds since the Wild Birds Protection Act 1954 and it is illegal to possess or control any wild birds' eggs taken since that time under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

It is illegal to sell any wild bird's egg, irrespective of its age.

Possession of wild birds' eggs is an offence of strict liability so that anyone who chooses to be in possession of eggs is obliged to show, on a balance of probabilities, that their possession is lawful. The potential maximum fine for each wild bird's egg is £5,000 and/or six month's imprisonment.

Despite the fact that legislation prohibiting the taking of certain wild birds' eggs has been in existence since 1880, the practice still continues and, in the case of particularly rare birds, it can have serious implications for their conservation. Rare breeding species particularly vulnerable to egg collectors include Slavonian and black-necked grebes, ospreys, white-tailed eagles, red kites, and red-necked phalaropes.

Collectors can devote their life to the pursuit of eggs and can become obsessed with the practice. They usually take the whole clutch of eggs, and may also return for a second clutch. Often rarer species of birds are targeted. An egg will rot if the contents are left inside so eggs must be 'blown'. Collectors will take eggs at every stage of incubation, although freshly laid eggs are preferred as it is easier to blow out the yolk and the white of the egg.

Since the introduction of custodial sentences for these offences by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, a number of collectors have been sent to prison for up to six months. This appears to have had a positive effect in reducing egg-collecting activity in the UK. 

However, it remains a problem and there is some evidence that egg collectors are operating increasingly abroad.  

What can I do?

Have you seen a crime against a wild bird? Use this form to report a wildlife crime to the RSPB.

Report a wildlife crime

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