Ecological surveys that keep your project on track
If your development could affect protected species or sensitive habitats, your local planning authority will require an ecological survey before granting permission. Getting this wrong — or leaving it too late — can cause serious delays. We carry out all the surveys you're likely to need, provide a clear report for your application, and support you through planning from start to finish.
Types of surveys we offer
Bats
All UK bat species are legally protected. If your project involves a building, barn, tree, or bridge, a survey will almost certainly be required. We carry out roost assessments and, where needed, dusk emergence and dawn return surveys following Bat Conservation Trust guidelines.
Badgers
Badgers and their setts are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. If your site borders woodland, hedgerows, or rough grassland, a badger survey is likely to be required. We locate active setts, assess usage levels, and provide clear mitigation recommendations.
Reptiles
Six reptile species are native to the UK, four of which are legally protected. Rough grassland, brownfield land, and scrubby edges are typical habitats. We carry out systematic surveys using refuge tiles and run translocation programmes if development impact cannot be avoided.
Birds
All wild birds and their active nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. We carry out nesting bird checks and breeding bird surveys, and advise on the timing of vegetation clearance and groundworks to keep your project legally compliant and on programme.
Phase 1 habitat survey
The standard starting point for any development with ecological constraints. A Phase 1 habitat survey maps the habitats present on your site, identifies which protected species may be present, and sets out what further targeted surveys will be needed before you can proceed.
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We also carry out a range of additional surveys: riparian mammal surveys for otter and water vole, National Vegetation Classification surveys, riparian invertebrate surveys including the Southern Damselfly, and terrestrial invertebrate surveys for Lepidoptera and Hymenoptera.
Timing matters — let's plan ahead
Most protected species can only be surveyed at certain times of year. Leaving survey commissioning too late is the most common cause of unnecessary project delays. Select a month to see what can be surveyed — then get in touch early and we'll map a survey programme around your build programme.
Select a month to see what's in season.
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Indicative windows only. Actual survey requirements depend on your site, the species present and your planning authority — give us a call and we'll tell you exactly what's needed.
Our ecological surveys have a 100% planning approval success rate.
“Every query the case officer raised was already answered in Vesper’s report. That is the difference between a fortnight and six months.”
Ready to get your project moving?
Let's start with a conversation. We're always happy to spend a few minutes talking through your project and pointing you in the right direction — even if the answer is that you don't need a survey at all. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation chat.