How Heatwaves Have Affected Ecology Surveys this Season.

Updated August 12th, 2026

What does a heatwave mean for ecological surveys?

Increasingly, we’re having to consider how extreme or unusual weather affects our surveys and timings. This recent heatwave has been a good example of how field ecology and our team continues to adapt.

Great Crested Newt surveys
Exceptionally warm overnight temperatures meant bottle trapping had to be carefully assessed. Protecting animal welfare always comes first, so where conditions weren’t suitable, surveys needed to be delayed or alternative approaches considered.

Reptile surveys
With temperatures already reaching around 19°C by 6am, reptiles have been becoming active much earlier than expected or simply not using the refugia we use to survey for them. To collect robust survey data, our ecologists have been timing survey visits strategically and re-scheduling.

Dormouse surveys
The heat has even affected our equipment. High temperatures increased risk of drying of the charcoal powder mix used in footprint tracking tunnels, reducing the reliability of footprints and requiring us to rethink survey timings.

These species specific examples highlight something that’s becoming increasingly important for ecological consultancy.
Building on our understanding of protected species and habitats, we also have to understand how changing environmental conditions affect survey quality, wildlife welfare, project programmes and the wellbeing of the people carrying out the work.

At Luscinia Ecology, our response has been simple:
🌿 Adapt survey timings where appropriate.
🌿 Continuously review risk assessments.
🌿 Protect the welfare of both wildlife and our team.
🌿 Work proactively with clients to keep projects moving without compromising on survey quality.

As temperatures continue to rise and weather patterns become less predictable, flexibility and forward planning are becoming just as important as ecological expertise.

If you’ve had to adapt project timelines or the way you work during this summer’s heatwaves, we’d be interested to hear how others across the environmental and construction sectors have responded. Follow us on Instagram Facebook and LinkedIn to join the conversation.

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