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.