Protected Species Surveys
Expert Protected Species Surveys for Planning & Conservation
At Quantock Ecology, we provide specialist protected species surveys and ecological consultancy services to accompany planning applications, development projects, and conservation efforts. Our team of highly qualified ecologists delivers expert assessments and reporting, ensuring full compliance with UK wildlife legislation and planning regulations.
We work closely with planners, developers, architects, and landowners to identify and assess the presence of protected species on-site and develop bespoke mitigation and enhancement strategies to meet legal requirements while balancing development objectives.
Our Protected Species Surveys
We conduct a comprehensive range of protected species surveys across the South West of England, including:
- Breeding Bird Surveys – Identifying nesting birds and assessing potential development impacts.
- Reptile Surveys – Establishing reptile presence and advising on mitigation measures.
- Badger Surveys – Assessing badger activity and compliance with legal protection measures.
- Barn Owl & Bat Surveys – Conducting assessments for barn owls and roosting bats in buildings and trees.
- Otter Surveys – Identifying otter habitats and advising on conservation strategies.
- Water Vole Surveys – Detecting water vole populations and ensuring habitat protection.
- Winter Bird Surveys – Monitoring overwintering
- Great Crested Newt Surveys – Undertaking Habitat Suitability Index and bottle trapping surveys, providing expert advice on mitigation and licensing
Mitigation, Licensing & Ecological Support
In addition to conducting protected species surveys, our expert team provides:
- Protected Species Mitigation Licences – Supporting clients through the licence application process.
- Mitigation & Enhancement Plans – Designing habitat enhancement strategies for projects.
- Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) – On-site ecological monitoring and compliance management.
- Post-Development Monitoring – Ensuring species protection commitments are met post-construction.
Our specialist ecologists are primarily based in the South and South West of England, allowing us to offer in-depth local expertise and responsive support for projects across these regions.
Services
Bat Surveys
Expert bat surveys for planning applications, ensuring compliance with UK wildlife laws. Our team conducts Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRAs) and Emergence Surveys to assess bat presence and activity.
Mitigation Plans
Tailored ecological mitigation and enhancement plans to support development projects while protecting biodiversity. We provide bespoke strategies to align with planning requirements and conservation goals.
EPS Licences
Specialist support in securing European Protected Species (EPS) licences, guiding you through the Natural England application process to ensure legal and efficient project progression.
