The Habitats Directive (Directive 92/43/EEC) was adopted in 1992 and with the Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC), they form the cornerstones of EU biodiversity policy. The two directives have created the Natura 2000 network – which is now the largest coordinated network of protected areas in the world.

The Habitats Directive aims towards the protection of over a thousand animal (mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates) and plant species and 230 characteristic habitat types. The overall objective is to ensure that these species and habitat types are maintained, or restored, to a favourable conservation status within the EU. In addition to halting the further decline or disappearance of these species and habitats, the Directive aims to allow them to recover and thrive over the long-term.

The Habitats Directive includes six Annexes:

Annex I – Natural habitat types of community interest whose conservation requires the designation of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs).

Annex II – animal and plant species of community interest whose conservation requires the designation of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs).

Annex III – Criteria for selecting sites eligible for identification as Sites of Community Importance (SCIs) and designation as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs).

Annex IV – Animal and plant species of community interest in need of strict protection.

Annex V - Animal and plant species of community interest whose taking in the wild and exploitation may be subject to management measures.

Annex VI - Prohibited methods and means of capture and killing and modes of transport.