Key Ecological Survey Periods in the UK
Here’s a quick guide to when the main ecological surveys can be carried out:
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA): Can be carried out year-round, but spring and summer are best for plant identification.
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Surveys: Best carried out between May and September, when plants and habitats are most identifiable. Surveys outside this period may be less accurate and could require follow-up visits in the optimal season.
Botanical Surveys: May to August (peak flowering for most plants).
Bat Roost Surveys: Inspection surveys any time of the year. Emergence surveys May to September.
Bat Hibernation Surveys: December to February.
Great Crested Newt Surveys: Mid-March to mid-June (pond surveys using bottle trapping, egg searches and torching). Mid-April to late June for eDNA surveys.
Dormouse Surveys: April to November (nest tube checks; best in spring and autumn).
Badger Surveys: Can be done year-round, but sett surveys are best in autumn and winter.
Reptile Surveys: April to September (warm, dry days; avoiding temperature extremes).
Water Vole/Otter Surveys: April to September (vegetation and water levels are optimal).
Why Does Timing Matter?
Legal Compliance: Many species are protected by law. Surveys outside the correct season may be invalid, risking planning delays or legal issues.
Project Planning: Missing a survey window can delay your project by up to a year.
Data Quality: Surveys in the right season provide more reliable results, supporting robust mitigation and planning decisions.
Top Tips for Project Managers
Plan Ahead: Consult an ecologist early to plan required surveys and their timings.
Book Early: Survey slots fill up quickly in peak season.
Combine Surveys: Where possible, combine surveys to save time and costs.
Need Advice?
If you’re unsure which surveys you need or when to schedule them, get in touch with our team at Teylu Ecology. We can help you plan your project to avoid costly delays and ensure compliance with UK wildlife legislation.
Contact us today to discuss your project and book your ecological surveys at the right time of year!
