Regardless of the outcome of Brexit, 1000+ species and sites (protected by the EU Habitats and Birds Directive) are under risk. It is crucial that these species are still protected post Brexit as they are entirely vital to our UK ecosystems.

In the UK, there are 271 special protection areas for birds (SPAs) and 658 special areas of conservation for other species and habitats (SACs).

Upon leaving the EU there will be a set of regulations to protect these animals but 'none of these international agreements has enforcement provisions, and consequently the level of protection they provide is far lower than that provided by equivalent EU legislation.' This is sourced directly from Friends of the Earth England.

Despite your political opinion, the lives and survival of these animals still matter. The UK must become an international leader in animal conservation and climate change.