Barn Owl Training for Ecologists
During February of 2020 Assistant Ecologist Alex Bridel attended a two-day barn owl course hosted by the Barn Owl Trust in Waterleat, Devon.
Nestled between the dramatic open moorland of Dartmoor National Park and the rolling countryside of lowland Devon sits, secluded in a valley, the Barn Owl Trust. Here began one boys’ journey from lowly ecologist to prince of the pellets, nave of nesting signs and baron of barn owls!
The course itself was split into two days with ecology, surveys and signs covered on the first day and advanced surveying and mitigation techniques covered on the second day. The course was highly informative with a balanced mix of classroom-based PowerPoint learning with hands on practical sessions both in the classroom and in situ at real barn owl nesting sites. The information was presented by a team who obviously have a passion for barn owls and the conservation of British nature.
Was the course beneficial?
This highly recommended two day course (recommended for anyone interested in barn owls) provided Alex with the necessary knowledge to assess buildings and trees for their habitat value for breeding barn owls, along with the ability to identify and age the signs of use and provide suitable mitigation to help maintain and improve the conservation status of this important species. Armed with this knowledge, Alex is planning to apply for his barn owl licence with the help of Senior Ecologist Simon Pidgeon (a barn owl licence holder), so he can begin working to help conserve the species; working with clients to provide solutions that help benefit both development and the natural world.
If you are planning a rural development or barn conversion you may well be asked for a bat and or barn owl survey. Get in touch to discuss your proposals and see how we can help!