Breeding Bird
Surveys
Surveys that establish which birds breed on your site and how development can proceed lawfully, supporting your planning application.
What is a breeding bird survey?
All wild birds, their nests and eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. A breeding bird survey records the species using a site during the nesting season and assesses how a development could affect them.
Surveys are carried out across the breeding season, typically from mid-March to mid-July, over several early-morning visits using recognised territory-mapping methods. Our ecologists then set out any timing constraints, mitigation or enhancement your application needs.
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1
Early-morning visits mid-Mar to mid-Jul
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2
Territory mapping
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3
Assessment & reporting
Why you need a breeding bird survey
Where a site has hedgerows, trees, scrub, grassland or buildings that could support nesting birds, your Local Planning Authority will often require a breeding bird survey.
Nesting birds are protected
It is an offence to damage or destroy an active nest, so works must be planned around nesting birds.
A spring and summer survey
Breeding bird surveys can only be carried out during the nesting season, so early planning avoids delays.
Timing & mitigation
We set out working windows, mitigation and enhancement so development can proceed lawfully.
Breeding bird survey FAQs
When can breeding bird surveys be done?
During the breeding season, typically mid-March to mid-July, with the survey design tailored to your site.
Why do I need one?
To establish which birds breed on site and make sure works do not harm active nests, which are legally protected, or result in damage to or loss of breeding sites.
How many visits are needed?
This varies with the site and habitats. We will confirm a proportionate survey design and programme.
What if birds are found nesting?
We advise on timing of works and any mitigation so the development can proceed without breaking the law.
Ready to discuss your project?
Our ecologists will review your site details and respond within one working day with a clear, no-obligation quote.