If GCN are to be removed from the site in preparation for a development, the site is usually surrounded by a drift fence to ensure no migration occurs into the site from the surrounding habitats. To do this, a suitably experienced ecologist must first check the site boundary where the fence will be located to ensure that there are no newts present. Erection of the fence may then commence under supervision of an ecologist.
Carrying out a bat survey is a multi-stage process and the amount of assessment needed depends on the initial evidence and the size and complexity of the structures involved. Continue reading
All bat species and their roosts in Britain are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) (WCA) through their inclusion on Schedule 5. The implementation of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CRoW 2000) has amended the WCA 1981 to include ‘reckless’ damage to, or destruction of a roost, disturbance of bats whilst in a roost. Continue reading