Frequently asked questions.
When you're planning a development, understanding your responsibilities around protected species can feel daunting. This FAQ section is here to help. We've grouped common questions by species to make it easy to find the information you need.
Whether you're at the start of a project or mid-way through the planning process, our experienced team is here to support you with clear, practical guidance and survey expertise.
If your question isn’t covered here, don’t hesitate to get in touch — we’re always happy to help.
-
If your development site has habitats that could support protected species, a survey is required to help planning authorities assess any potential impacts. This ensures legal compliance and helps inform mitigation measures where needed.
-
Timing is crucial. Some surveys can only be carried out at specific times of year (for example, bat activity surveys are seasonal). It's best to seek advice early in your project planning to avoid unnecessary delays.
We have a survey calendar which you can find here <INSERT SURVEY CALENDAR>
-
In many cases, developments can still proceed, but appropriate mitigation, compensation measures, or licensing may be required. Our ecologists will work with you to find practical solutions that comply with the law.
-
Proceeding without the necessary ecological surveys can result in planning delays, legal action, or conditions being imposed on your project. Early assessment helps avoid these issues.
-
Generally, ecological surveys are considered valid for 12–24 months, depending on the species and changes in site conditions. If there’s a significant delay between the survey and development, an update may be needed.
General Species Survey FAQs
-
Preliminary bat scoping surveys can be conducted year-round. However, activity and emergence surveys must take place between May and September.
-
Bats are active at different times and weather conditions can affect survey results. Multiple surveys ensure an accurate understanding of bat use on the site.
-
In the UK, the bird nesting season typically runs from March to September. Vegetation clearance should be planned outside this period where possible, or nesting bird surveys may be needed before works start.
-
If active nests are found, works may need to be delayed until fledging occurs. Our ecologists can advise on mitigation options to minimise disruption.
-
Dormouse surveys often use nest tubes and nut searches. Surveys are usually conducted between March and October.
-
Dormice are a European Protected Species. If found, mitigation and potentially a licence may be needed before development can continue.
-
Newt surveys are usually conducted between mid-March and mid-June, during their breeding season.
-
If newts are found, mitigation such as habitat creation or translocation under licence may be needed. Our team can advise and manage this process.
Species specific FAQs:
bats, birds, dormice and Newts
-
Surveys involve looking for signs like burrows, droppings, and feeding stations along riverbanks or watercourses.
-
If water voles are present, specific mitigation measures will need to be in place before work can continue to comply with wildlife law.
-
Otter surveys can be carried out year-round but are best timed to suit local conditions. Surveys mainly focus on field signs like spraints, holts, and footprints.
-
If active holts are present, works may require licensing and careful mitigation to protect this European Protected Species.
-
Surveys can be undertaken throughout the year, but visibility is better outside of bad weather periods.
-
Appropriate mitigation measures will be required to minimise disturbance or harm, and we will work with you to develop practical solutions.
-
Reptile surveys are generally carried out between March and October, with peak times being April, May, and September.
-
Habitat retention, habitat enhancement, or translocation may be necessary to protect reptiles and comply with legal requirements.
Species specific FAQs:
Water voles, Otters, Red Squirrels & Reptiles
-
Surveys involve carefully inspecting riverbeds, often using clear-bottomed buckets. In some cases, mussels may be gently lifted and measured under licence.
-
Yes. They are fully protected, and developments near suitable rivers require careful assessment and mitigation planning.
-
Surveys are required where White-Clawed Crayfish could be present and involve setting baited traps or manual searches under licence.
-
Practical mitigation will be needed to minimise impact and ensure compliance with UK wildlife protection laws.
-
Surveys include habitat appraisal, camera trapping, and scat analysis. Pine martens are elusive, so survey techniques are adapted accordingly.
-
As a protected species, their presence must be considered, and mitigation measures may be required to avoid harm.
-
Scottish wildcats are found mainly in the Scottish Highlands. They are fully protected, and any development near suitable habitat requires careful consideration.
-
Surveys involve searching for field signs such as scats, claw marks, and dens, supported by camera trapping where necessary.