Protected Species
There are several protected species whose presence on a site can have implications for its development. The presence of a protected species can affect a project by creating timing constraints and introducing a requirement for mitigation measures.
It is important to understand the ecology of a site prior to master planning and design. PJC Consultancy hold licenses to survey all the major UK protected species groups. We can advise you on how their presence can affect your site and guide you through the process of surveying, reporting and taking the necessary measures to continue with your project, including how to provide opportunities for habitat creation and enhancement.
To find out more about our protected species surveys please call us on 01323 768155 or use our enquiry form. More information on specific protected species can be found on the additional pages in this section.
Bat Surveys
Typically, a bat survey will include an internal bat survey, bat emergence surveys or a bat activity survey (also called a 'dusk survey') and a dawn survey (or 'pre-dawn survey'). These bat surveys will aim to assess the presence of bats within bat roosting structures such as buildings, bridges and trees. |
Otter Surveys
Otters and their habitats are fully protected under both UK and European legislation. The otter is a Priority Species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. |
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Great Crested Newts
The Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) is the UK's largest newt. It is highly protected and is a European Protected Species. |
Water Vole Surveys
It is protected under the UK law and its population has declined over the past century due to habitat fragmentation, pollution, river canalisation, and predation by American mink (Mustela vison). |
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Reptile Surveys
There are six native reptile species in the UK: four widespread, grass snake (Natrix natrix), slow-worm (Anguis fragilis), common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) and adder (Vipera berus) and two much rarer, smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and sand lizard (Lacerta agilis). |
Bird Surveys
All wild birds native to the UK (including migratory species) are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Nesting and breeding birds are also protected under the Act which makes it an offence to recklessly kill, injure or take any wild birds, nests or eggs. |
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Badger Surveys
A typical badger survey is carried out by an experienced ecologist who will search for signs of badger activity such as hairs, setts, pathways, snuffle holes, latrines, and paw prints. |
Dormouse Surveys
PJC Consultancy can also develop woodland management plans to enhance your site for dormice, including establishing dormice boxes, planting schemes, traditional woodland management techniques and monitoring. |
