It may feel like summer, but some of our feathered friends are just getting started building nests, raising chicks, and marking their territory. While this is a wonderful time for nature, it’s also when many people start thinking about pruning trees, trimming hedges, or clearing overgrown areas. But before you reach for the saw or book in major tree work, it’s crucial to stop and ask: could birds be nesting here?
The answer is very often yes, and disturbing those nests isn’t just irresponsible, it’s illegal. That’s why you need Tree & Lawn Company. Based in Essex and covering the whole of East Anglia, we help homeowners and businesses stay compliant, protect wildlife, and carry out tree work the right way.
The law: What you must know
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is a criminal offence to intentionally damage, destroy, or even disturb an active bird’s nest. That includes nests being built, eggs being incubated, or chicks being raised. The penalties? Unlimited fines and even the possibility of prison – and yes, that applies whether the damage is caused by a developer, a contractor, or a well-meaning homeowner.
The issue is nests aren’t always obvious. Birds are masters of concealment, and many build their homes in hedges, ivy-covered trees, or even the crown of a mature oak. That’s why professional tree surveys and pre-bird checks aren’t a “nice-to-have” – they’re a necessity. By working with the experienced team at Tree & Lawn Company, you’re not just protecting your trees, you’re protecting yourself. For your peace of mind, our many accreditations include being an ARB-accredited contractor and a TrustMark registered business.
Why it matters: Ecological impact
Birds and their nests are vital to our local ecosystems. From controlling insect populations to pollinating plants and dispersing seeds, they play an unseen but essential role in keeping our green spaces healthy and balanced.
Sadly, many bird species in the UK are in decline. The loss of nesting sites, particularly in urban and suburban areas, is a big part of the problem. When nests are destroyed, whether by accident or neglect, it can have a real knock-on effect. Protecting them isn’t just about following the law, it’s about doing the right thing for nature on our doorstep.
The hidden risks of DIY tree work
We get it – trimming a few branches or tidying up a hedge might seem like a quick weekend job. But during nesting season, it’s anything but straightforward. Nests are incredibly well hidden, and many birds choose quiet corners of hedgerows, tree forks, or even low shrubbery to raise their young. What looks like overgrowth to you might be home to a brood of chicks just days from fledging.
The danger with DIY work isn’t just the physical risk to yourself, it’s that you might destroy an active nest without even knowing it. That could leave you facing prosecution under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, not to mention the personal regret of having harmed protected wildlife. For a business, there is also the risk of reputational damage if you break the law.
At Tree & Lawn Company, we’ve seen first-hand how easily these mistakes can happen. Our trained team knows exactly what to look for and what to avoid. In short, we’ll help you get the job done without risking a wildlife crime.
What a professional pre-bird survey involves
A pre-bird nesting survey isn’t just a glance up into the branches, it’s a thorough, methodical inspection carried out by someone who knows exactly what they’re looking for. At Tree & Lawn Company, our trained and ARB-accredited tree surgeons and surveyors examine trees, hedgerows, and undergrowth for any signs of nesting activity – from active nests and fledglings to subtle behaviour like adults carrying food or nesting material.
Timing is critical, too. Surveys need to be done immediately before work begins, often on the same day, to make sure no birds have moved in overnight. If a nest is found, we’ll halt work in that area and schedule around it – no compromises, no guesswork.
It’s this level of care that sets professionals apart from DIYers. We bring not just tools and ladders, but experience, ecological awareness, and a commitment to doing the job properly, for our clients, and for the wildlife we share our spaces with.
Best times to schedule tree work & how we can help
The simplest way to avoid disrupting nesting birds? Plan your tree work for the autumn or winter months – ideally between September and February, when most birds have finished breeding and left their nests behind. Not only is this safer for wildlife, but it’s also often the best time for the health of your trees, especially if pruning is involved.
Of course, not everything can wait. If you’ve got urgent tree work during nesting season, don’t panic, just call in the professionals. At Tree & Lawn Company, we’re fully equipped to carry out pre-bird surveys for both domestic and commercial clients, assess the site thoroughly, and advise on the best course of action. If work can proceed safely, we’ll let you know. If not, we’ll help you plan for a later date that keeps you and local wildlife protected.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a business, trust us to handle it properly. Book your tree or nesting bird survey today – and let’s do it right, together.