[ARCHIVED CONTENT] Defra, UK - Wildlife and Countryside - Mammal and bird licensing and advice

Wildlife management and licensing advice

		Advice on wildlife in England, the relevant legal considerations, and guidance on how to apply for licences under wildlife legislation. Latest news and current issues 1 January 2008 - From today all general licences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) are issued by Natural England, copies of all new general licences can be accessed from this link. 21 August 2007 - An amendment to the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 came into force today, which has a range of consequences for the protection of European protected species and licensing under this legislation. Further information. 31 July 2007 - Abolition of Game Licences in England and Wales. New Regulations have been introduced to remove restrictions for those shooting and dealing in game. The Regulations come into force on 1 August 2007, more information can be found under Game Licences. 27 January 2007 - Licensing procedures for European Protected Species are changing as a result of amendments to the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994. A presentation is now available from seminars held in January to explain these changes. 11 December 2006 - Approval for purchase and use of strychnine hydrochloride expired on August 31st 2006. A recent appeal by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) to retain use of strychnine for mole control was unsuccessful. Further information. 2 October 2006 - Natural England is launched. Provision of wildlife management advice and issue of licences will be carried out within the new organisation. earlier stories Advice Advisory leaflets provide advice on resolving problems caused by a range of animals. If your situation is not addressed, or you would like more detailed guidance, specialist wildlife advisers are available to discuss your situation. All advice and leaflets are provided free of charge. Wildlife licensing Where appropriate licences can be issued to permit otherwise prohibited action to be taken to resolve problems where there is no other satisfactory solution. The licensing system safeguards the conservation and welfare of wild animals but provides a way to allow action to be taken when necessary. Responsiblity for resolving problems Responsibility for dealing with problems caused by wild animals in the UK normally rests with the occupier of the land concerned. Defra does not provide a 'pest' control service. This is a matter for individuals, private pest control companies or local authorities to address within the constraints of the law. The Wildlife Management & Licensing Service ensures the appropriate management of certain problem species where occupiers have a statutory responsibility to do so, and where significant damage is being caused. Wildlife Management & Licensing Service The Wildlife Management & Licensing Service provides advice and administers wildlife licensing in England. The initial point of contact for all enquiries is the Wildlife Licensing Unit (see contact details). The Service is part of Natural England. Natural England is authorised to discharge certain Defra wildlife management functions under a Part 8 Agreement under section 78 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006. How Natural England carry out these functions is detailed in the 'Agreement on Natural England’s discharge of Wildlife Management Functions'. Wildlife Species Conservation Division The European and UK Species Policy Team of Defra's Wildlife Species Conservation Division have responsiblity for the Department's policy relating to the management of domestic wildlife. Using this web site Select the appropriate option from the index in the left hand column, or see further guidance on obtaining advice and the procedures for applying for licences.