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 in hollowed old trees, agricultural buildings such as barns including open hay barns and have been known to roost on stacked straw bales. A barn owl survey will be requested by landowners, developers or the local authority in relation to planning applications to redevelop agricultural buildings, or when suitable trees are to be affected by proposals.
Sonar Ecology are fully licensed and experienced in undertaking barn owl surveys and providing practical advice and mitigation solutions should a nesting site or roost be affected by development.
Given the similar nature of the structures used by barn owl and bats, it is often cost effective to combine this survey with a daytime bat assessment where appropriate.
For an initial enquiry or fee quote please contact us.
