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Legal pest control

Some mammals and birds cause persistant problems and need to be controlled legally, as part of countryside management. The majority of traps set in the countryside are legal, selective and safe.

Please respect legal pest control

If you suspect a trap is illegally set, do not touch it, but phone the police (click here for guidance on reporting wildlife crimes).

To report suspected illegal poisoning call immediately on 0800 321 600 (calls are free). Click here for more information on illegal poisoning.

    Legal pest control poster

Page last modified: 10 March 2008
Page published: 14 July 2003

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs