Public warned not to cut hedgerows during bird nesting season
The cutting of hedgerows during this time is largely prohibited, with only limited exemptions applying.
There were 17 prosecutions for wildlife crime last year, with fines of up to €14,000 imposed, as authorities step up enforcement proceedings during the bird nesting season.
The 17 cases relate to offences under Section 40 of the Wildlife Act 1976, which prohibits the cutting, burning, or destruction of vegetation such as hedgerows, trees, and shrubs between March 1 and August 31.
Five cases have been concluded, while a further 12 remain before the courts.
The figures were released as Easter coincides with a peak period for nesting birds, when wildlife is particularly vulnerable to disturbance.
Minister of state for nature, Christopher O’Sullivan, is urging the public to be vigilant over the holiday period, noting that the months ahead are critical as birds begin building nests, laying eggs, and raising their young.
Mr O'Sullivan warned that the cutting of hedgerows during this time is largely prohibited, with only limited exemptions applying.
“Hedgerows are a defining feature of the Irish landscape,” he said.
“These living fences provide food and shelter for our birds and pollinators and serve as corridors for wildlife to move across fragmented habitats.
"Hedgerows can benefit from cutting from time to time, but it is important that this activity takes place outside of nesting season to avoid disturbing nesting birds and other wildlife."
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has also issued updated guidance for landowners, outlining their legal responsibilities and advising that vegetation should be checked carefully for nesting activity before any work is carried out.
It is an offence at any time of the year to knowingly disturb or destroy the nest or eggs of a wild bird, or to harm a bird on or near a nest containing eggs or unfledged young.
The guidance also details limited exemptions during the nesting season, although there is no exemption for the burning of vegetation.
Additional consent may also be required for hedge cutting within designated areas such as special areas of conservation (SACs) and special protection areas (SPAs).
NPWS director general Niall Ó Donnchú warned that habitat destruction can undo years of conservation work.
A well-managed, species-rich hedgerow can support up to 2,000 species per kilometre, he said, while Ireland’s network of hedgerows — estimated at 689,000km — represents one of the country’s most important biodiversity resources.
Peatlands, including raised and blanket bogs, are also significant habitats, capable of supporting hundreds of specialised species per square kilometre.
Mr Ó Donnchú said the NPWS has strengthened co-operation with the Gardaí, landowners, and local communities in tackling wildlife crime, and will deploy aerial resources where necessary to protect vulnerable habitats.
The minister said engagement from farmers and landowners had been encouraging, with many choosing to leave hedgerows undisturbed throughout the spring and summer months.
“These actions are giving wildlife a better chance to thrive,” he said, adding that breaches of the Wildlife Act remain subject to prosecution.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
