Ecology Reports

Overview

Ecology reports for protected species are a key component of responsible land management and development planning. These specialist assessments are designed to determine the presence or potential presence of legally protected wildlife on or near a site, ensuring compliance with UK legislation and supporting informed decision-making. The findings help landowners, developers, and planners understand ecological constraints, meet legal obligations, and implement effective biodiversity strategies.

Purpose

Protected species ecology reports are commissioned to:

• Confirm the presence or likely presence of protected fauna or flora.
• Satisfy planning requirements and inform ecological mitigation strategies.
• Support licence applications for works that may affect protected species.
• Ensure legal compliance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 and other relevant laws.
• Identify opportunities for biodiversity net gain and ecological enhancement.

Methodology

Each report is tailored to the site context and typically includes:

• Desktop review: Search for existing records of protected species and statutory/non-statutory designations within 1–2 km of the site using local records centres and online databases.
• Habitat assessment: On-site evaluation of habitat suitability for species such as bats, great crested newts, badgers, dormice, reptiles, otters, water voles, breeding birds and rare plants.
• Targeted surveys: Seasonally appropriate, species-specific fieldwork led by licensed ecologists—such as bat activity transects, emergence surveys, reptile refugia checks or aquatic surveys for amphibians.
• Impact assessment: Analysis of how the proposed works might affect identified species or habitats.
• Mitigation and enhancement: Recommendations to avoid, reduce or offset impacts – such as habitat creation, buffer zones and long-term management plans.
• Licensing advice: Guidance on the need for protected species licences and support through the application process if required.

Outcomes

The final report provides:

• A clear overview of the ecological value of the site.
• Species-specific survey results with maps and photographic evidence.
• Assessment of development impacts and legal implications.
• Mitigation and compensation strategies.
• Advice on biodiversity enhancements aligned with planning policy.
• Support documentation for Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEA), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA) or European Protected Species Licence (EPSL) applications.

Protected species reports are often a critical part of the planning and approvals process, especially where development intersects with sensitive or high-value habitats. ArbAware’s ecologists conduct these assessments with scientific rigour and in accordance with best practice guidance. Our aim is to help clients move forward with confidence, meeting statutory requirements while promoting responsible stewardship of biodiversity.