There are several protected species in Britain which we are unable to treat as pests. Great crested newts, grass snakes, slow worms, common lizards and water voles are all protected species.  Also it is illegal to kill or injure any native snake.  For further information on any of the species listed below or other wildlife, please use the links on the right.

Badgers

Badgers and their setts are protected by Law. Badgers are nocturnal, omnivorous animals, which are generally considered to be gentle creatures unless provoked. Their woodland habitats are increasingly under threat from road building and housing developments. For more information about badgers, please use the link on the right.

Bats

Bats are protected under European and UK Law. This protection includes their roost sites as well as the bats themselves. Should you find an exhausted or injured bat, and you have to move if, it is important to wear gloves, as there is a small risk of being infected by a strain of rabies if bitten or scratched. Bats are unlikely to bite unless frightened. Use the link on the right to access more information about bats.

Bees

Bees are highly beneficial to the environment, pollinating flowers, fruit blossoms and crops. Many species of bumble bee are in severe decline. The Council will not treat bees as pests, unless there is a definite risk to public health (e.g. they are in a child’s bedroom). A local bee keeper may be able to remove a swarm of honey bees for a small fee and rehome the bees. The British Beekeepers Association has some useful information on bees, please see the link on the right.