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Licensing and protected species of mammal

Follow the links below to find out more about which of our native mammal species are protected, what needs a licence and how to apply for one.

Leisler's bat (Nyctalus leisleri). ©John Haddow/SNH. For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.gov.uk

Bats and licensing

When is a licence needed, application forms and guidance

Badger (Meles meles) emerging from hedge.
©Laurie Campbell/SNH. For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.gov.uk

Badgers and licensing

Types of badger licence, when is a licence needed, when is it not? Find out more here....

Mountain Hare (Gateway) - Mountain Hare (Lepus timidus) in its winter coat. �Lorne Gill/SNH. For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Libary on tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.gov.uk

Hares and licensing

Licences relating to mountain and brown hares

Grey Seal._©Lorne Gill_For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.org.uk

Marine mammals and licensing

Licences relating to whales, dolphins and seals

Pine Marten. ©Lorne Gill/SNH. For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.gov.uk

Pine martens and licensing

What needs a licence and how to apply. Find out more.....

European Otter ©Lorne Gill_For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.org.uk

Otters and licensing

Find out more about licences relating to otters and the places they live

Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) feeding from a peanut feeder._©Lorne Gill/SNH_For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.org.uk

Squirrels and licensing

Find out about licensing and squirrels...

Species Action Framework logo SAF. ©SNH. For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.gov.uk

Shrew and vole licensing

When is a licence needed for work with shrews and water voles?

Captive Scottish Wildcat (Felix sylvestris) at the Highland Wildlife Park, East Highland Area. ©Lorne Gill/SNH. For information on reproduction rights contact the Scottish Natural Heritage Image Library on Tel. 01738 444177 or www.snh.gov.uk

Wildcats and licensing

Find out about wildcats and licensing requirements