Protected Species Surveys
Conserving nature & increasing biodiversity
We offer many different services that aim to increase biodiversity, conserve nature and create new habitats for wildlife. From offering Rewilding advice, managing long-term Biodiversity Net Gain projects and more.
Badger Surveys
Badgers and their setts (underground homes) are protected by law in the UK, so it is crucial to identify their presence and understand the impact any proposed development may have on their habitat. The survey findings help inform the planning process, allowing developers and local authorities to consider alternative designs or mitigation strategies to minimise disturbance to badger populations.
Bat Surveys
There are 18 species of bat in the UK, and all are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Bat surveys are required when a project or development may affect a bat or its resting place (roosts), but the presence of bats does not mean that development of a site is not possible.
Breeding Bird Surveys
Typically, a general bird survey should be recommended wherever development has the potential to impact upon important assemblages of breeding birds.
Dormouse Surveys
These small, arboreal mammals are legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Dormouse surveys are required when a development directly impacts dormice or their natural habitat.
Great Crested Newt Surveys
Great crested newts (GCN’s) are a highly protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. GCN surveys are required for planning permission in the UK to assess the potential impacts of proposed developments on great crested newt populations, to inform habitat management plans, assess the impact of development projects and ensure appropriate mitigation measures are in place to protect the newts and their habitats.
Reptile Surveys
There are six native reptile species in the UK and they are all fully protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 as amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.
Water Vole Surveys
Water voles are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. If any development is to be conducted on or near to a water body that has the potential to support water voles then a survey will be necessary to determine if they are present.
Wintering Bird Surveys
Wintering bird surveys are often required where proposals have the potential to impact upon internationally designated populations of overwintering birds and/or the habitats they rely upon.
Explore our other services
Explore our other services including biodiversity net gain assessments, preliminary ecological appraisals and more.