Bat Surveys Gloucestershire: Protected Species Surveys

Bat Surveys, Gloucestershire, are a crucial component of the planning process, particularly for any development proposal that may affect local wildlife. Bats are a European Protected Species, and their roosts are protected by law under both the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. This means that before proceeding with any project, it is essential to establish the presence of baths through appropriately timed and legally compliant surveys.

As part of planning applications, the local planning authority may require a bat survey if there is any potential risk to the bat habitat. These assessments often begin with a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) to identify ecological constraints and opportunities on-site. If bat activity is suspected, more detailed bat surveys are carried out by ecological consultants.

At Collington Winter Environmental, we offer a full suite of bat survey services led by experienced ecologists who hold Natural England Protected Species Licenses; our work helps support your development proposal while ensuring full compliance with environmental legislation and safeguarding local bat populations.

The survey process begins with a Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA) – a daytime inspection of buildings, trees, or structures to identify signs of a bat roost, such as droppings, staining, or access points. If a roost is likely to be confirmed, further activity surveys are scheduled during the active bat season (May to September). These include:

• Dusk Emergence Surveys: Observing bats as they leave their roosts at sunset.
• Dawn re-entry Surveys: Monitoring bats returning to their roosts at sunrise.
• Nocturnal Activity Surveys: Tracking the number of bat individuals, species present, and flight paths using acoustic and thermal imaging technology

Should bats be confirmed on-site, appropriate mitigation and licensing steps must be taken. This can include the implementation of special measures to protect the residing bats, such as timing of works, bat boxes, and bat-friendly infrastructure. Our team of ecologists will review and consider the best options for your site and present a detailed and informative bat mitigation report to help with your development site’s environmental targets.

If you need bat surveys, Gloucestershire, to support your planning application or development proposal, our expert ecological consultants are here to help. We offer a full range of services, from Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and Preliminary Roost Assessments to dusk emergence and dawn re-entry surveys.

Our team is fully licensed by Natural England and experienced in handling surveys for all protected species, including bats. We’ll guide you through the process, from initial assessment to mitigation and licensing, ensuring your project complies with legal and ecological requirements.

Contact us today to arrange a survey or request a free consultation. You can reach us by email at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk, call 01204939608, or fill in our enquiry form below and a member of the team will get back to you at the earliest opportunity.