They know that in essence it is not just about variety, but about the variety of native species in their natural ranges. Nature Conservation which is worth obtaining. Requires the conservation of internationally important wetlands. Their legally protected status is as SSSI s, protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act . Appendices list species for which exploitation and other factors should be controlled.
Legal implementation is by three mechanisms.
The European Commission can investigate complaints of breach of the Directive. Secondly this Directive had much influence on the Wildlife and Countryside Act and many of its requirements are included in that legislation. This is the main piece of legislation for the UK and for implementing preceding EU conventions. There are also measures for the protection of certain species, including dormouse, which were not previously protected by other legislation. As noted, this protection could be somewhat stronger than that afforded to SSSI s, particularly as regards existing planning permissions.