When it comes to outdoor spaces and nature as a whole, there are actually a number of laws and regulations that many people are not aware of - and because of that, Brits end up at risk of being fined sometimes thousands of pounds for something they did not know about. As a result, experts are warning people of this specific action that could cause people to be fined up to huge £5,000.

Ecologists from Arbtech are urging Brits to not pick certain wildflowers and plants without permission, as doing so could set you back a huge amount of even face imprisonment. Wildflowers are a crucial key to biodiversity, and the removal of them will cause a negative impact on the wildlife that rely on the plants from food and shelter.

Bluebells are an example of wildflowers that the ecologists are warning people to think twice about picking. It comes as the experts say many do not realise that "intentionally picking, uprooting, or destroying" specific wild plants without permission is against the law.

A spokesperson for ecology consultancy firm Artbech said: "A lot of people assume that picking flowers is only illegal if they belong to someone. But legally, all plants are considered wild unless proven otherwise. Even if a flower is growing on private land, taking it without permission could land you in trouble."

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, those who are found doing so can face fines up to £5,000, a prison sentence or even both. Taking wild plants from parks, nature reserves, and Sites of Special Scentific Interest (SSSI) are stricly protected is illegal.

Additionally, picking flowers from someone's private land without permission can also be against the law. Regardless if the plants seem uncultivated, removing them without consent counts as theft.

They continued: "So while grabbing a few daffodils or bluebells on a family walk might feel like no big deal, it can have serious consequences - for both nature and those who get caught.

"Instead, we encourage families to enjoy wildflowers where they grow and visit public gardens or wildflower meadows to admire them up close without harming the environment."