I FEEL lucky to be living in a part of the country when at this time of the year I can hear skylarks, yellowhammers and chiffchaffs singing. Yellowhammers are declining in numbers and greatly need our hedgerows, one reason to remind people that between March 1 and August 31 is bird breeding season when it is illegal to harm nesting birds.
It is also against the law (Hedgerows Regulations 1997) to remove countryside hedgerows without permission. Applications must be made to the Planning department at Wiltshire Council.
A hedge is considered to be a row of bushes, sometimes with trees and climbers. It is protected if it is a boundary line of trees and shrubs that at one time was a continuous line, also protected if it is alongside a public right of way.
Removal without permission can lead to a £5,000 fine. If you are concerned about hedgerow management then contact Natural England on 0300 060 3900 or email enquiries@naturalengland.org.uk .
Please help keep our countryside alive with birds.
Liz Stephens
Leigh Park Road
Bradford on Avon