Bird Licensing - Conserving wild birds

Licences to control predatory bird species

Licences are available to control one species of wild bird for the purpose of conserving other species.

A general licence is available to permit control of certain common species for the purpose of conserving wild birds in specific circumstances.

Individual licences can also be issued by Scottish Natural Heritage to control other species.  In order to be able to issue a licence Scottish Natural Heritage need to be satisfied that a cause and effect link exists between predation and significant declines in the population or distribution of the prey species and that there is no satisfactory alternative to lethal control.

Detailed guidance on how to apply for a licence 

Licence application form 

Information notes:

• Buzzard 
• Raven 
• Sparrowhawk