Cormorant  (Phalacrocorax carbo)

People involved in angling and fisheries are concerned that the increase in numbers of cormorants in the UK is having a negative impact on fish stocks (5), and some are calling for the legal protection of the species to be reduced (3). Conservationists believe that any conflicts can be resolved on each site and are worried that such a move would affect the conservation status of the species (5).

Like all birds, the cormorant receives protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981; it is illegal to kill wild birds and their nests and eggs cannot be taken or destroyed (5).