Surveys

An initial Phase 1 habitat survey undertaken in accordance with current survey guidelines is often one of the first surveys undertaken on a site. This survey aims to categorise and map the broad habitat types found on site. This survey is often extended to note the potential for protected species to be present. The [...]

Great crested newt (GCN) are a material consideration in the planning process and are protected by both UK and European law. It is one of three newt species found in the UK, the others being the common or smooth newt and the palmate newt. An initial habitat suitability assessment can be made without a [...]

There are times when a detailed Phase 1 Habitat Survey may not required for a project, yet information on what is on site,and the potential risks to the client is needed to inform, for example,  initial master planning options or to inform the client at the pre-purchase stages. In these instances Sonar Ecology are able [...]

Sonar Ecology hold all the relevant licences which allow us to undertake surveys on key protected species including: Bats Great crested newt Barn owl Badger Water vole Otter For a full range of species surveys visit our Survey link.

All bat species in the UK are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) as amended, and by European Directives all of which makes them a material consideration in the planning process. Should your planning application affect mature trees, built structures, bridges, disused mines, or key habitat features such as hedgerows, tree lines and [...]

All wild bird nests, eggs and young are protected from disturbance under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Some birds, including barn owl, listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act receive an extra level of protection which means that they cannot be disturbed during the breeding season. Barn owls nest [...]

Badgers are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. It is illegal to willfully kill, injure, take, possess or cruelly ill-treat a badger, or attempt to do so; to intentionally or recklessly interfere with a badger sett by damaging or destroying it; to obstruct access, or any entrance of, a badger sett and [...]