Change of https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/wild-birds-licence-to-kill-or-take-for-conservation-purposes-gl40

Change description : 2026-01-01 00:01:00: From 1 January 2026, this licence will be issued by Natural England. It will be valid for 1 year. It introduces changes in structure and to wording of conditions and advice. A list of birds of conservation concern is provided. There are additional requirements to reduce bird disturbance in certain situations. [Guidance and regulation]

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Statutory guidance

Wild birds: licence to kill or take for conservation purposes (GL40)

As a land owner, occupier or authorised person, use this general licence to kill or take certain species of wild birds to conserve wild birds, flora or fauna of conservation concern.

From:
Department
Natural for Environment, Food & Rural AffairsEngland
Published
1 January 2021
Last updated
1 January 20242026 — See all updates

Applies to England

Documents

GL40: general licence to kill or take certain species of wild birds to conserve wild birds, flora or fauna of conservation concern

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List of birds of conservation concern and woodland birds of conservation concern

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Details

You do not need to apply for general licence GL40, but you must comply with its conditions.

There are restrictions to avoid or reduce bird disturbance.

If you need help, email: GLenquiries@defra.gov.ukwildlife@naturalengland.org.uk.

Updates to this page

Published 1 January 2021
Last updated 1 January 2024 + show2026 href="#full-history">+ show all updates

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Update history

2026-01-01 00:01
From 1 January 2026, this licence will be issued by Natural England. It will be valid for 1 year. It introduces changes in structure and to wording of conditions and advice. A list of birds of conservation concern is provided. There are additional requirements to reduce bird disturbance in certain situations.

2024-01-01 00:01
From 1 January 2024, this licence will be valid for 2 years, until 31 December 2025. Sparrowhawks added to the list of woodland birds of conservation concern.