Bat Survey Rochford: Protected Species Surveys

If you’re planning a development in Rochford, a bat survey may be required to meet local ecological and planning regulations. Rochford District Council, in line with national legislation such as the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, often mandates surveys to ensure bat habitats and roosting sites are not harmed.

Bats are a protected species in the UK, and understanding their presence is crucial before proceeding with site work. At Collington Winter Environmental, our licensed ecologists provide efficient, professional support tailored to your development needs—ensuring compliance while protecting local nature.

Our bat surveys in Rochford typically follow a three-step approach:

• Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA): A strong inspection of buildings and trees to search for signs of bat roosting, such as droppings or entry points.
• Dusk and Dawn Emergence Surveys: If initial signs are present, we conduct surveys at sunset and sunrise to monitor bats leaving and returning to roosts. We use thermal imaging and bat detectors to gather data without disturbing the bats.
• Nocturnal Activity Surveys: Nighttime observations track bat flight paths, feeding grounds, and species identification using echolocation monitoring.

The best season for bat surveys is May to September, though winter assessments may be needed if hibernation sites are suspected.

We bring many years of experience in protected species surveys across the UK, including bat, great crested newt, and broader ecological assessments. Our strategic, results-driven approach ensures minimal delays to your planning process while safeguarding vulnerable wildlife.

To begin your bat survey in Rochford, contact our Managing Director Olivia Collington at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk. We’re here to support your development—ethically and efficiently.