Species Protection and the Inshore Fishing Sector is the third in a series of IEEP briefings examining key provisions of EU nature conservation policy set out in the habitats and birds Directives, and how these relate to the UK inshore fishing sector (ie within 12 nm). The aim of this briefing is to explain the provisions of Article 12 of the habitats Directive, outlining the system of strict protection for certain animal and plant species, and its application in the marine environment. Provisions for certain fish species, whose taking in the wild may be subject to management measures, are also outlined. Additional measures under the EU birds Directive to establish a general system of protection of all European wild birds, their eggs and nests, including sea birds such as the guillemot, razorbill, puffin, gannet, shag and kittiwake, are NOT covered.