Bat Surveys Catterick: Protected Species Surveys

Bat Surveys, Catterick are an essential part of the planning permission process, especially for any development proposal that may impact local wildlife. As a European Protected Species, all bat species and their roosts are protected by law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. Before any construction or land development begins, it is vital to establish the presence of bats through professionally conducted and legally compliant surveys.

As part of planning applications, the local planning authority may request a bat survey if there is a potential risk to bat habitats. These assessments typically begin with a preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) to highlight ecological constraints and opportunities. If evidence or potential for bat activity is identified, qualified ecological consultants then undertake further detailed ecological surveys.

At Collington Winter Environmental, we offer a complete suite of bat survey services delivered by experienced ecologists who hold Natural England Protected Species Licences. Our surveys are designed to support your project while ensuring legal compliance and protecting bat populations.

Catterick and the surrounding areas in North Yorkshire support a rich diversity of bat species, thanks to a mix of woodland, farmland, and river corridors. Types of bat species commonly recorded include the common pipistrelle bat, soprano pipistrelle bat, and brown long-eared bats. These habitats make it especially important to assess bat activity as part of any proposed development, particularly in semi-rural or wooded areas. Our ecologists are familiar with the local ecology and can provide accurate, site-specific recommendations.

The process begins with a Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA) – a daytime inspection of buildings, trees, or structures to identify signs of a bat roost. These signs can take the form of droppings, staining, or entry points. If a roost is suspected, we follow up with bat activity surveys conducted between May and September, when bats are most active. These Include:

• Dusk Emergence Survey – Monitoring bats as they emerge from roosts at sunset.
• Dawn Re-entry Surveys – Observing bats returning to roosts at sunrise.
• Nocturnal Activity Surveys – Identifying bat species, flight paths, and foraging behaviour using acoustic bat detectors and thermal imaging technology.

If bats are confirmed, we prepare detailed mitigation and licencing strategies. These may involve installing bat boxes, adjusting construction timelines, or incorporating bat-friendly features into your development. Our mitigation plans are tailored to your site’s needs and submitted as part of a robust bat survey report.

If you require bat surveys, Catterick, to support our planning application or meet requirements from the local planning authority, Collington Winter Environmental is here to help. We offer everything from Preliminary Ecological Appraisals and Landscape Architectural Support to help with mitigation license applications, and can help give your development project the environmental hindsight it needs to succeed.

Our consultants are fully licensed by Natural England and are experienced in working with all UK-protected species. We will guide you from the initial site assessment through to any licensing applications, ensuring your project stays on track with nature in mind.

Whether you are at the start – or midway through your development journey, we can assist you today. Get in touch using our enquiry form below to discuss your project. Alternatively, call us on 01204939608, or email us at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk.