Breeding bird surveys
February 13, 2011
Winter survey season almost over - spring fast approaching!
Over the next month, a busy winter bird survey season will be drawing to a close. We've been clocking up the miles in the company van, from Pembrokeshire to Renfrewshire, Surrey to Sunderland!
Now that winter is almost at an end, it is time to plan bird surveys for the spring breeding season.
Breeding bird surveys are increasingly recognised as an essential part of most environmental impact assessments. Many birds are recognised as 'priority species for the maintenance of biological diversity' through the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act in England and Wales, and Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act. As such, they are a key consideration in planning decisions.
Good survey data allows a quantifiable assessment of ecological impact, and allows mitigation and ecological enhancement measures to be planned with the needs of particular bird species in mind.
Argus Ecology have experience of a range of survey methods, including Common Bird Census methodology, 'Brown and Shepherd' methodology for upland waders, and 'O'Brien and Smith' methodology for wader surveys of enclosed land.
We can advise on the potential need for a survey based on site location and the nature of the development, and can consult with the local planning authority to agree a level of survey effort which will satisfy their requirements in a cost-effective manner.
At the time of writing, we some spring surveys scheduled, but still have plenty of capacity, with up to three in-house staff available with bird survey experience over the spring period.
Don't hesitate to give us a call or drop us an email to discuss your requirements and request a quote.