Sambrook Associates

Surveys can be undertaken at anytime of year. However, it is always more robust to undertake these surveys between April and October, when evidence of fauna and most flora species can be recorded. All surveys follow best practice guidance.

Bat surveys of buildings, trees and structures can be undertaken at various times of the year. Visual inspections can be undertaken throughout the year, however very often, activity surveys undertaken during the month of March to October are also often required. Best practice guidance as well as professional judgement is used to determine the level of bat survey that may be required.

Great crested newts, and other amphibians spend much of their time on land. However, during the breeding season (March to June), they are found in ponds and this is the optimum time to survey for them. Using best practice guidelines, a variety of methods are used including traditional techniques and the newly introduced eDNA protocol.

Badgers are very common throughout the rural landscape and are protected by law to deter their persecution. Irrespective of current culling regimes across parts of the UK, it is still necessary to consider the presence of badgers on a proposed development site and ensure current legislation is still adhered to. Surveys, following best practice guidelines can be undertaken throughout the year, depending upon the method of survey employed.

Reptiles are active between the months of March and October and therefore surveys are conducted throughout this period. As per best practice guidance, surveys are conducted using mats which are left in-situ and checked regularly for the presence of individuals.

Streams and ditches can provide habitat for both otter and water vole. Surveys for these species can be undertaken between March and September, following best practice guidance.

A range of bird surveys can be undertaken, including barn owl surveys, winter walk-overs and vantage point surveys. The methodology (and therefore timing) of survey depends upon the type and location of development proposed. All surveys follow best practice guidance.

Botanical surveys, including National Vegetation Classification (NVC or Phase 2), arable weeds and individual key / indicator species surveys can be undertaken during may to September, depending upon species. All surveys are carried out using best practice guidance.

Surveys for specialist flora and faunal groups, such as mosses, fungi and invertebrates can be undertaken at the appropriate time of year and following best practice guidance.

Tree surveys can be undertaken at various times of the year, depending upon the objective of the survey.

We can provide the full suite of reporting to support your development proposals including; pre-purchase/lease Site Appraisals, Phase 1 Habitat Survey Reports, Preliminary Ecological Appraisals, Ecological Impact Assessments, Habitat Regulations Assessments,mitigation design, licence applications and Biodiversity Management Plans. Where applicable, reports are written in accordance with best practice guidance, published by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).

With over 15 years experience specialising in Ecology and new developments, including Public Inquiry, we hold the capabilities and expertise to provide necessary documentation, and presence at Inquiries.