Bat Survey in Taunton: Protected Species Surveys

A bat survey in Taunton may be required to inform planning applications and uphold necessary ecological commitments that apply to new project developments in and around the Taunton area. Supporting the preservation of bat habitats and roost sites is crucial for local councils with the aim of mitigating risk factors for bats alongside other endangered species. Collington Winter Environmental has a team of experienced ecologists who are willing to provide a wide range of assistance for development teams in Taunton.

Supported by important legislation, such as  The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, Taunton Borough Council have the power to intervene with a project if they believe the inspection or protection of bats has been neglected.

If a survey has recorded bat presence, a duty of care is bestowed upon project developers to help bats to reside alongside the new development. Strategic measures must be put in place to prevent further decline of bat species across the UK, including Taunton, Somerset.

When undertaking a bat survey on a proposed development site in Taunton, assessment should take place between May and September, as this season witnesses the peak of bat activity across the South of England. Should bat presence be recorded during the summertime, wintertime surveys may be required to assess for hibernating bats.

Further Advice regarding bat activity in the Borough of Taunton can be found on the Somerset Bat Group Website.

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.
• Nocturnal Bat Surveys: Since all UK bat species are nocturnal and use echolocation, nocturnal surveys are an effective way to monitor their activity and behaviour. These surveys are typically performed at night to gather detailed data on bat behaviour and activity levels.

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. This can include design and implementation to protect or replicate bat roosting spots and inform a works schedule to prevent unnecessary disturbance of the bats.

Collington Winter Environmental are an ecological consultancy boasting extensive experience in environmental impact assessments and surveys nationwide. Our team hold Natural England Class Licences and works with protected species across the UK alongside bat conservation trusts. Our ecological consultants take a proactive approach to survey work to leave no room for delays, ensuring both project developers and surrounding wildlife gain a mutual benefit.

Please get in touch with our Managing Director, Olivia Collington (info@collingtonwinter.co.uk) for more information. We also provide preliminary ecological appraisal (PEA) services alongside landscape architectural services.