pest control

[hertford resident]

Hi,

I have a number of magpies that have taken up residence in some trees overhanging my garden that make a lot of noise in the morning, can anyone recommend anyone to remove magpies from an area / how much this service would cost? If not does anyone hire out Larsen traps?

[Louis M]

I believe that it is illegal under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 to remove the nests and/or trap/kill them. I remember this from my old job as a tree surgeon.

[Joby]

http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/m/magpie/legal_control_methods.aspx

[Darcy Sarto]

Yes the Wildlife and Countryside Act pretty much covers all creatures that aren't actually a pest (or not indigenous).

Trap (and release) is acceptable but as a method of controlling nuisance has limited effect as they just come back.

How would your neghbours feel about a bird scarer? (loud bang at a set period)?