All nesting birds are protected by law.

It is an offence to:

• Intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird
• Intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built
• Intentionally take or destroy the egg of any wild bird

It is also an offence to:

• Intentionally or recklessly disturb any wild bird listed on Schedule 1 while it is nest building, or at a nest containing eggs or young, or disturb the dependent young of a Schedule 1 bird. You can find out more information about Schedule 1 birds on the Guidance notes page

Nesting can occur all year round but will be highest March to August, depending on the weather.

Do NOT start work without completing a breeding bird check. You can find a template Breeding Bird & Nesting Check Form on the Guidance notes page.

If in doubt, and it is safe to do so, STOP work and seek advice.

Signal fault case study

When responding to a signal fault, a signalling technician discovered a family of blue tits had taken up residence inside the signal head.  The technician took photos of the nest and chicks, stopped work and consulted the environment specialist and ecologist.  Between them, they agreed an intervention plan and approached the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), who agreed it was a practical approach.

The team prepared all materials and equipment in advance to limit disturbance to the chicks. A light cloth was placed over the nest to protect the chicks. Excess nest material was removed, and a piece of cardboard was placed around the lamp. Access for the adults was preserved and once the chicks fledged, the signal cabinet was sealed.