Explanatory note

This Order, which applies substantively in relation to England only, varies Schedule 5 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which lists animals protected under section 9 of that Act.

Article 2(a) adds four animals to Schedule 5. Two seahorse species (short snouted seahorse and spiny seahorse) are given general protection under section 9. The angel shark and the roman snail are given limited protection. The protection afforded to angel shark does not apply to those territorial waters between 6 and 12 nautical miles from baselines. Article 2(b) replaces the limited protection previously afforded to water vole by general protection.

A full impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as it has no impact on the costs of business.

Copies of Schedule 5 may be obtained, free of charge, from the Wildlife Species Conservation Division, Defra, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6PN.