Bird

About Bird Surveys

We offer three types of surveys for birds: breeding bird surveys, wintering bird surveys and barn owl surveys. The surveys forms the basis of the ecological decision making and associated mitigation for a proposed development Site, including detailed design and layout considerations.

The requirements depend on the type of habitats, their layout, and their management. Breeding bird surveys are often needed for larger arable and meadow landscapes. During the survey, our team will record and map the species, their abundance, breeding activities, and territories.

Breeding bird surveys may be required when the habitat present within a development site is likely to support species specially protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act or listed as habitat favoured by priority species or which may otherwise be of value for birds.


This infographic provides a simplified overview of relevant UK legislation, why and when you might require a breeding bird survey, as well as how we navigate seasonal and timing constraints, helping to keep your project moving! Feel free to download it but please, print responsibly.


This infographic provides a simplified overview of relevant UK legislation, why and when you might require a wintering bird survey, as well as how we navigate seasonal and timing constraints, helping to keep your project moving! Feel free to download it but please, print responsibly.


For Breeding Bird Surveys, three to six visits are required between March and August, inclusive. As a rule of thumb, it’s considered that the earlier months are better for recording activity. The surveys include a walked route around the Site between dawn and midday.


The approach is similar for Winter bird surveys, except that the surveys are undertaken between November and February. They focus on similar habitats but also include wetland sites and land adjacent to wetland sites.


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