Bat Survey in Steyning: Protected Species Surveys

A bat survey, Steyning, may be necessary to meet ecological requirements for new project developments in and around the area. Ecological survey requirements for new sites are often in accordance with local planning regulations. Therefore, Bat surveys are a necessary step to determine whether bats may be present on a site preparing for development in Steyning.

Taking steps to protect bat habitats and roosting sites is a priority for local councils to minimise risks to bats and other endangered species. Collington Winter Environmental has a team of skilled ecologists ready to assist with ecological services tailored to your development proposal needs.

Supported by important legislation, such as The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017,  Steyning Parish Council has authorisation to intervene with a project if they believe actions to protect bats have been neglected.

Bat activity surveys on a proposed development site in Steyning should take place between May and September, as this season witnesses the peak of bat activity across West Sussex. If evidence of bat activity is recorded during the summertime, wintertime surveys are sometimes an additional step to assess for hibernating bats.

A bat survey process will usually follow a structure similar to the one below and will inform a bat mitigation strategy:

Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA): This initial survey determines whether bats are likely to be roosting in a building or structure. It is an important first step in evaluating the potential impact of the proposed development on local bat species. Consultants will conduct both an internal and external inspection of a site for any signs of bat roosts, such as bat droppings.

Bat Emergence and Re-entry Surveys: If bat activity is detected after the preliminary survey, an emergence or re-entry survey may be necessary. These surveys track bat movements, including entry and exit points to buildings, providing valuable insights into bat behaviour, roosting locations, and feeding habits. They are typically conducted multiple times, both day and night, using equipment like thermal imaging cameras and automated bat detectors to minimise any disturbance to the bats.

Nocturnal Bat Surveys: Since all UK bat species are nocturnal and use echolocation, consultants undertake bat nocturnal surveys to further monitor their nighttime activity and behaviour.

At the conclusion of the survey work, a list of recommendations will be presented to a project manager on how best to support any present bat species and habitats. Furthermore, consultants may comment for on the best timing to undergo construction work.

Collington Winter Environmental is an ecological consultancy with a wealth of experience in conducting protected species assessments and surveys across the UK. Our team holds Natural England Class Licences and collaborates with bat conservation trusts to protect and manage species throughout the country. When it comes to ecological surveys, we prioritise a strategic and efficient approach, ensuring minimal delays while benefiting local wildlife.

Please get in touch with our Managing Director Olivia Collington (info@collingtonwinter.co.uk) for more information. Additionally, we take on other types of protected species survey work, such as great crested newt surveys. We also provide preliminary ecological appraisal (PEA) services alongside landscape architectural services.