Hedge-trimming islanders urged to protect wildlife

Islanders with roadside hedges on their properties have been urged to protect wildlife when cutting them back.

Landlords and tenants have until 15 June to trim hedges bordering public roads under Guernsey law, so they do not block road signs, traffic lights and visibility for drivers.

The States said cutting a hedge "too severely and frequently" could have a detrimental effect on the vegetation and the wildlife it supports.

Agriculture, Countryside and Land Management Services said people should check for "nesting birds or other wildlife" and use secateurs for "minimal cutting" around nests if they find them.

It said internal hedges should be left until after bird breeding season between March and July to cut.

Guernsey law requires roadside verges to be cut between 1 and 15 June and then again between 15 and 30 September each year to remove overhanging vegetation.

However, people with "rare or uncommon plants" in their earth banks and hedges should avoid cutting them until September if possible, said officials.

Officials said: "Guernsey's beautiful landscape is defined by its distinctive roadside hedge banks which form an important part of our island's heritage.

"They form living threads which run through and connect the parishes and can be a haven for both plants and animals, adding much to the island's natural living diversity."

Anyone finding injured wildlife should contact the GSPCA, the organisation said.

Traffic and Highways said people should make sure cuttings are cleared away immediately to avoid the need to clear blocked drains.

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