When should a survey be carried out?

As a guide breeding bird surveys should be carried out when:
• Scrub clearance is planned
• Removal of trees and hedgerows
• Erection of wind turbines is planned

Breeding Bird Surveys

All breeding birds are protected under schedule 9 of the wildlife and countryside act 1981(as amended). Wild birds are protected from being killed, injured or captured. Their nests are protected from being damaged, destroyed or taken. Several species are included in schedule 1 of the act which gives them and their young protection while nesting.

The presence of protected species is a material consideration when a planning authority is considering a development proposal. The presence of protected species and the affect of the proposed development must be established before planning permission can be granted.

Breeding Bird Survey Methods

Desk Study

A desk study and record search with local wildlife trusts and ecological record centres will be carried out, to find any historic records of protected species in the area, such as Barn Owls or Kingfishers.

Field Surveys

Field surveys for breeding birds can take many forms depending on the site. The breeding bird season is generally recognised as March to August inclusive. Below are some of the services we provide with regard to breeding birds
• Transect, point count and territory mapping (CBC) surveys to determine the breeding bird population and provide an estimate of numbers
• Specialist surveys for groups such as raptors, wildfowl and waders
• Nocturnal bird species
• Nesting bird checks prior to site clearance or demolition work
• Habitat design and creation and production of management plans
• Provision and erection of bird boxes and advice on positioning
• Provision, erection and maintenance of barn owl boxes and monitoring

Contact us for specific advice on your project

Related Species

• Barn Owl