You must be able to prove that you followed the conditions of the relevant law before you keep any wild bird, its eggs, or the nest.<\/p>\n
In simple terms, the definition of ‘taken legally’ is (any):<\/p>\n
Note<\/strong>: The RSPCA offers further guidance if you find a baby bird out of its nest<\/a> (e.g. nestlings or fledglings). As a rule, you will need to get a licence to keep a wild bird in captivity.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Wild disabled birds are those which may be better off kept in captivity because they are considered as being unfit for release (e.g. unlikely to survive alone in their natural habitat).<\/p>\n Most veterinarians will be able to provide proof that the bird is ‘unfit for release’ if you want to keep it. Thus, you would need to get a statement confirming that it would be unlikely to survive by itself in the wild.<\/p>\n As the new keeper of a wild disabled bird, you would need to meet all of its welfare needs and be able to care for it without creating any ‘unnecessary’ suffering.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Note<\/strong>: Failing to meet the welfare needs of birds, or causing them unnecessary suffering, can result in a fine and a prosecution in the United Kingdom.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n There is no legal requirement to get a licence to keep a wild bird if the animal was taken or killed ‘legally’. Even so, you must be able to provide some proof that you own it ‘legally’ to avoid prosecution and an unlimited fine.<\/p>\n Thus, it would be important to keep a record of where you found the bird and when you took it. You would need to produce a receipt if you paid for it (e.g. bought it from someone).<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Four schedules outline the laws that relate to the treatment and protection of birds of prey in the United Kingdom – and internationally.<\/p>\n If the bird is listed on schedule 4 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (WCA) you would not need a licence to keep it. But, you would need to register it (including wild disabled birds).<\/p>\n Birds listed on the schedule 4 species:<\/p>\n Important<\/strong>: Defra produces further guidance about registering<\/a> to keep captive schedule 4 birds. The information also explains when to ring them and when to have them microchipped.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n You must apply for a licence to keep a wild animal<\/a>, including birds classed as dangerous and wild (i.e. cassowary, ostrich).<\/p>\n Furthermore, you would also need to meet the conditions set out in other short-term licences, including a licence for:<\/p>\n Note<\/strong>: Another section explains the best methods for preventing problems caused by wild birds<\/a> (e.g. to land and water) and how to get a licence to capture or kill them.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Note<\/strong>: This video presented by ‘OC Aviary’ is a useful guide for beginners to learn about breeding and keeping British native birds in captivity.<\/p>\n
\nHow to Keep a Wild Disabled Bird<\/h3>\n
\nBird keepers must also…<\/h3>\n
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\nGetting Licences for Wild Birds<\/h3>\n
\nBirds of Prey (schedule 4 birds)<\/h3>\n
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\nGetting a Wild Bird Licence<\/h3>\n
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\nRelated Help Guides<\/h4>\n
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