Other protected species

Other protected species

There are many other species that have the same protection as mammals under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Habitat Regulations. These include many species of butterfly and moth, beetles, spiders and many marine invertebrates. This means generally it is an offence to intentionally cause unnecessary suffering to them. 

Licence

Where a licence authorising an activity has been granted by the Countryside Council for Wales or the Welsh Assembly Government, the activity can be carried out legally as long as the conditions of the licence are followed. Protected species can in certain circumstances be killed, taken, or disturbed under the authority of a licence.

A licence should always be sought to carry out activities affecting protected species. Licences can be issued for specific purposes including scientific study, photography, conservation management and preventing damage to crops and property.