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Bird licences - taxidermy and possession of specimens

There is a general offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 against possession of wild birds (dead or alive), or parts of wild birds or their eggs.  However, a person is not guilty of this offence if he or she can show that the specimen had not been killed or taken illegally.

Licences are therefore not necessary for someone to possess these items, but it will be the responsibility of that person to be able to demonstrate that it was not taken illegally should they be asked to do so by the police.

It is illegal to sell or offer or advertise for sale any dead wild bird or egg.  However, licences are available under certain circumstances to permit such actions for the purpose of taxidermy.  If you wish to get a licence for sale or taxidermy you should contact Scottish Natural Heritage species licensing team for advice. 

Is the scenario you are looking for not covered in the above? If so just ask.