PROTECT OUR NATURE – HEDGE CUTTING it is estimated that hedgerows cover approximately 1.5% of the land area of Ireland. Hedgerows provide botanical diversity as well as food and shelter for animals, most notably birds. They also act as corridors connecting habitats. It is an offence (Section 40 of the Wildlife Act, 1976, as amended by Section 46 of the 2000 Act), to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy hedgerows during the nesting season from 1 March to 31 August, subject to certain exceptions’. Let’s protect our birds, our butterflies our insects and small mammals so our children and grandchildren can grow up with them in their lives. It is best for us all if any necessary work to hedgerows is done from September to end February.  Let’s protect nature! If you see what you suspect to be a hedge-cutting offence you can report it to your local NPWS office (see www.npws.ie/contact-us) or your local Garda station. If you have any questions regarding the Wildlife Act contact natureconservation@npws.gov.ie