RSK Carter Ecological Limited has an experienced and professional team of Animal Ecologists. This team is responsible for conducting initial walkover surveys to assess the suitability of habitats for a range of protected animal species. Results form these surveys then direct appropriate mitigation techniques to minimise any impacts that a development may have. These surveys require an in-depth knowledge of animal ecology and the requirements of all protected species. All our ecologists are members of the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management and hold at least one protected species survey licence. They also have experience of applying for licences on behalf of our clients. This enables Carter Ecological Limited to undertake surveys for the following species:

Badgers
Bats
Birds
Dormouse
Great Crested Newt
Invertebrates
Otter
Red Squirrel
Reptiles
Water Vole
White-clawed Crayfish



Initial walkover surveys detect habitat which could be suitable for one or a host of protected species. This could be in the form of shelter, foraging or commuting. Features need to be examined and assessed for each species and this is a skill developed through extensive experience. Once a feature has been deemed suitable for a species a more comprehensive survey is conducted to ascertain if the species is in fact present. Techniques employed at this level range from general field-signs (Badger setts, animal nests and feeding-signs) to the use of artificial refugia (such as nest-boxes).

By conducting surveys well in advance of any proposed development we can determine the presence or absence of a species and devise a mitigation strategy accordingly. RSK Carter Ecological Limited has ecologists who are well-versed in species legislation and have extensive experience of mitigation schemes. By using both these skills we endeavour to implement mitigation strategies that minimise any risks to resident species whilst fitting in with the developer’s schedule and demands. These strategies are individually tailored to each project and ensure that the correct level of mitigation is implemented for the scale of disturbance. Examples of mitigation strategies include incorporating loft voids into barn conversions for use by Brown Long-eared Bats, the design and building of artificial Badgers setts and the translocation of species such as Water Vole, reptiles and Great Crested Newt.