Taking mallard duck eggs to rear and release for conservation

Licences you need to take mallard duck eggs to rear and release for conservation.

Check the general licence

We issue a general licence for certain people to take mallard duck eggs for rear and release, under certain conditions.

You do not need to apply a general licence.

You must read it fully and be able to comply with all of the terms and conditions.

General licence 008: Licence to take eggs of mallard duck to rear and release.

If you cannot comply with the conditions, you must apply for a specific bird licence.

How to apply for a licence from us

You must apply for a specific bird licence for your activity if:

  • the general licences do not apply to your activity
  • you cannot comply with the general licence conditions

About you

We need:

  • your name, address, email and phone number
  • a description of your qualifications and experience
  • copies of your certificates and training log books
  • two references
  • copies of any similar licences from Natural England or Nature Scot held by you
  • to know if you, or anyone names on the licence, has ever been convicted of a wildlife offence

About the activity

We will ask you to:

  • select what you plan to do from the following:  
    • disturb through close observation
    • take wild birds or wild eggs
    • possess and control wild birds
    • possess and control wild birds' eggs
    • possess and control derivatives of wild birds
    • photography of Schedule 1 birds
    • ringing or marking or examining any ring or mark
  • explain what, when and how you want to do the activity
  • give a 12 digit grid reference for the place the activity will happen
  • state when you want your licence to start (a licence can last up to one year)
  • upload a method statement if x

How much it costs

We charge £137 for applications for commercial activities for example:

  • surveys for development
  • commercial photography

Applications for other purposes are free.

How long it takes

You will receive a decision on your application within 30 days of us receiving a complete application.

Start your application

Apply now

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