As an EU member state, British wildlife has been protected under two important pieces of European legislation: the habitats directive and the birds directive. These have required the UK government to establish and manage sites for the protection of vulnerable and rare animals, birds, plants, habitats and other species. In the UK, there are 271 special protection areas for birds (SPAs) and 658 special areas of conservation for other species and habitats (SACs). The future of nature conservation law after Brexit, when EU directives will no longer apply to Britain, is unknown.

Where are Britain’s special protection areas for birds?

Seasons key

Wintering: can be seen at the site in winter

Breeding: can be seen at the site in summer

Passage: birds stop off at this site in spring/autumn

Permanent: species are resident at the site

Where are Britain’s special areas of conservation?