Legal Framework
There are several pieces of legislation giving protection to species found in Scotland. The main instruments are outlined in the following pages. In many cases it is an offence to kill or capture animals including birds, or to uproot plants. The law also protects some wild creatures from disturbance or harassment, or disturbance of their nests or resting places. It also means that it is against the law to pick some plants. These web pages provide a summary of wildlife law in Scotland. If you need further information, you should refer to the legislation. You might also get additional advice from your local Police force's Wildlife Crime Officers 
, your local Scottish Natural Heritage Area Office, or the Scottish Government .
Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981
Find out about this domestic legislation and how it protects some of Scotland's species.
Habitats Directive and Regulations
The Habitats Directive is implemented in Scotland by the Habitats Regulations 1994.
Protection of Seals under the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010
If you would like to know how seals are protected in Scotland.
Offshore Marine Regulations
Certain species are protected in the offshore marine environment under separate legislation.