Who enforces the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) in England?
Natural England can issue licences for activities that would otherwise be illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. Such licences would normally only be issued if there is a conservation, educational or scientific benefit. Where licences are breached, Natural England is responsible for investigating and taking enforcement action. Where offences are committed by those without a licence, investigations and enforcement action is the responsibility of the police and Crown Prosecution Service. If you think seahorses or their habitat are being harmed, you should contact the police. Contact details for wildlife crime liaison officers are available here.
