The EU governs wildlife protection through the habitats directive, which covers the largest network of protected areas in the world.
It's designed to meet Europe's commitment to halting the steady loss of wildlife. But this has been only partly successful as conservation efforts by states have been patchy. Birds get their own directive because, like fish, migrating birds don't need passports.
…and what doesn't it do?
Member states - including the UK's nations - control about 25% of grants to promote rural development and reward farmers for protecting the environment. Governments also allocate allowances for fish catches, designate national parks and plan land use.
UK opt-outs?
None
The argument for leaving the EU
Farmers would face less bureaucracy. The UK could trim farm subsidies, which would reduce the tax burden. The UK could allow GM crops, and encourage trees to take over the uplands.