Breeding Bird Survey: Protected Species

How are Birds Protected? 

Since 1981, all breeding birds, wintering birds and nesting birds, with the addition of common species such as pigeons and blackbirds, have been protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. This crucial piece of legislation made any killing, injuring, or maiming of birds or eggs, including whilst nesting, a legal offence. 

Conducting a Breeding Bird Survey 

Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) are often required to keep track of status and mitigate potential risk of harm to bird species when a habitat is thought to be present within or close to a development site. 

The survey is conducted using the typical method based on the Common Bird Census Methodology developed by the British Trust for Ornithology.

Usually, one early-season visit between April and May and one late-season visit between May and June, leaving at least four weeks between survey dates is effective; however, on a site of a larger scale, up to ten visits may be considered necessary. Depending on the time of year, a third consecutive visit may be beneficial. For instance, migrant species do not arrive until May to start breeding, while resident species establish territories in early March. Early morning in Spring is the optimal time recommended for an initial visit due to the increase of bird habitats during this season, with the avoidance of impactful weather conditions such as rain, fog, or high winds. 

When recording a Breeding Bird Survey, numerous factors are to be measured. Including the date and time, weather conditions, species, and location of birds spotted. This information is then used to provide an estimate of the individual bird count and territory numbers. The approximate numbers of bird species can be estimated from the peak numbers recorded. If specific species may be an issue, or the site is coastal, other appropriate survey techniques may be required.  

August is the data entry deadline to ensure surveys completed provide an accurate indication of the bird species. Different measures to take on the proposed land to preserve bird species, as indicated by the results of the survey, should be considered. 

How can Collington Winter Environmental Assist? 

Collington Winter Environmental are an experienced team of ecologists who provide a wide range of nesting, breeding, and wintering bird surveys. We assist developers on all types of projects in any location in the UK. 

Our Ecology Director, Olivia Collington, has worked with protected species across the UK, undertaking field surveys and writing scientific, readable reports for submission at planning. 

Please get in touch today info@collingtonwinter.co.uk for more information on breeding bird surveys (such as in relation to Bats, Great Crested Newts, or Badgers) and mitigation.