Download our bird crime report, as well as finding out more about poisoning, egg collecting and nest robbery.
Wildlife and the law
Find out how wild birds and their eggs and nests are protected by the law and where you can go to find out more detailed information.
Wildlife law
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![Bittern Botaurus stellaris, gliding across a reed bed, Suffolk,]()
Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981
The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 is the primary legislation which protects animals, plants and habitats in the UK.
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![Early morning mists rise over the Harapan Rainforest, Sumatra, Indonesia]()
The CITES trade regulations
CITES is designed to prevent excessive and unrestricted international trade in wildlife.
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![Baltic sea on a stormy day with heavy rain falling on coastal headland, Gellort, Cape Arkona, Rugen island, Germany's most northerly point]()
UK Border Agency
Customs officers may work with the police or organisations like the RSPB in investigating cases involving specimens which have been illegally imported or sold.
Wild bird crime
Working with the law
This section explains more about how the RSPB works with the law and has influenced decisions.
Investigations PDF Library
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