Ecological Survey

Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs) are undertaken to identify potential ecological constraints and opportunities associated with a potential acquisition, purchased site, and/or future proposals. The appraisal will also identify further ecological surveys that may be required to inform a future planning application. This can be extremely useful for determining the viability of a potential scheme and to inform costs and timescales.

ECOSA team performs PEAs in line with guidance set out by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).

Notable and Protected Species and Vegetation Surveys

Proposals often require additional specific surveys to identify the presence of notable and protected habitats and species, and if present, determine their status and value.

ECOSA team can provide surveys for a range of notable and protected species/species groups including bats, otter, badger, hazel dormouse, water vole, birds, reptiles, great crested newt and invertebrates. ECOSA staff include highly experienced ornithologists on staff. A number of staff are qualified tree climbers which allows the survey of trees for the presence of roosting bats. Our staff hold Natural England licenses for bats, hazel dormouse, great crested newt, smooth snake and sand lizard which allow them to undertake survey activities which would otherwise represent a legal offence.

In addition, our experienced botanists are able to perform surveys for notable plant species and habitats, including National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys.

All surveys are planned, designed and undertaken with regard to the most up-to-date industry guidance available. Many surveys are seasonal - view or download the ECOSA survey timetable, to review the timing constraints of specific surveys.