Marine vertebrate conservation legislation in Wales

When to use marine conservation legislation guidance

This guidance is directed primarily at anyone applying to carry out developments or activities in Welsh waters.

It will help you understand the legal conservation status of certain species, in order to inform your applications and assessments.

This guidance note is a digest of conservation legislation, as it applies in Wales, for the following species:

• Cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises)
• Seals
• European otter (coastal areas only)
• Marine turtles
• Common sturgeon
• Basking, porbeagle and angel sharks

It includes information on special sites in Wales which are designated for their protection.

Read the guidance

Guidance on vertebrate conservation legislation in Wales. (PDF)