Does Tree Surgery Affect Wildlife?

Everything You Need to Know

Trees aren’t just there to make our outdoor spaces look nice. They can actually make such a difference to the local wildlife, too! When it comes to tree surgery, the right care and maintenance can have a really positive impact on wildlife, as long as it is carried out by an expert team at the right time of year. Here is what you can expect when you work with a trusted tree surgery company like Kent Tree Brothers.

The law

Before we get to anything else, let’s look at the laws surrounding trees and the types of wildlife that call them home. When you are having work carried out on a tree, there are three main pieces of legislation that you need to keep in mind:

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

This makes it an offence to intentionally cause any damage to or destroy a bird’s nest. It doesn’t matter if it is occupied or under construction, and it applies to all species of birds.

Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017

This piece of legislation relates to bats and protects the animals themselves along with their roosts and resting places. It makes it illegal to disturb bats or damage a roost, whether the bats are present or not.

Protection of Badgers Act 1992

As the name suggests, this law is in place to protect badgers and their setts. How does this relate to trees? Well, setts are often found near tree roots and are very common in woodland areas.

Working with a great team

Breaking any of the laws surrounding trees and wildlife could land you in serious trouble, which is why you should always leave tree work to an experienced team. They will know when to carry out work on trees to avoid disturbing any wildlife during nesting periods and will know how to preserve the tree so that it can stay as healthy as possible. That brings us to our next point!

A home for wildlife

Tree surgery is there to ensure that a tree stays as strong and healthy as possible, and this is a great thing for wildlife! Regular pruning, for example, will encourage fuller and healthier regrowth every year. This will give birds a safe place to nest. It’s also great for animals who eat nuts and berries.

Crown thinnings and reductions might seem like they are taking away from a tree, but they can actually let more light penetrate and reach the ground. This is going to help other plants thrive, which will then have a positive impact on the food chain. Everything is connected!

What now?

If you think that a tree in your garden needs attention, but you are worried about the wildlife, then don’t try to deal with the issue yourself. By working with a trusted tree surgeon, you can give the wildlife in your garden the best possible chance and remain on the right side of the law.