Trees and surrounding habitat
Trees can provide essential habitats for many species. Larger, mature trees may support bat roosts or be used by nesting birds. Before undertaking any tree work, you must consider the potential impact on protected species.
It is against the law to disturb or harm protected species, including:
- roosting bats
- breeding or nesting birds
- squirrels
Further information can be found here:
- Statutory Protected Species Supplementary Guidance
- Scottish Natural Heritage Protected Species
- Bats and Development
We sometimes leave standing deadwood or habitat piles of felled and cross-cut timber in woodland areas after tree work, when it is safe to do so.
Standing and fallen deadwood are valuable habitats that support invertebrates, fungi, mosses, and lichens. These invertebrates provide food for bats and birds, and deadwood naturally decomposes, contributing to nutrient recycling that benefits existing and new trees. There is a common misconception that deadwood attracts vermin, but this is not the case. Do not disturb habitat piles.
We do not permit members of the public to cut standing trees or collect felled timber for firewood from our land for these reasons.