BATS

The UK boasts a remarkable diversity of bats, with 18 different species calling our country home. These nocturnal mammals range in size from the unbelievably tiny common pipistrelle, weighing a mere 5 grams and just a few centimetres long, to the impressive common noctule, weighing up to 40 grams.

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Bats play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. They act as natural pest controllers, consuming vast quantities of insects each night. Their presence is a positive indicator of environmental well-being, highlighting the interconnectedness between bat health and our own quality of life.

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Each bat species has a unique distribution range. The common pipistrelle, for instance, thrives across England, Wales, and Scotland, making it the UK's most widespread bat. Conversely, Bechstein's bat, one of Britain's rarest, is primarily found in southern England, from Gloucestershire to Sussex.

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Sadly, bat populations have faced a decline in recent years. Habitat loss, predation, and even crime have all contributed to this worrying trend. Recognising their importance, bats are designated as European Protected Species (EPS). This legal status, alongside Schedule 2 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2017) and Schedules 5 and 6 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), offers them significant protection. As such, it is an offence to capture, kill, disturb or trade any bat species, as well as damage, destroy or obstruct access to any structure or place they may use for shelter or protection. 

Planning applications for developments have to consider the potential for the proposals to harm bats or their habitats. 

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Aven Ecology can provide advice and recommendations to developers when undertaking works which may affect bats:

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Desk Study - We conduct thorough searches of existing bat records in the local area, along with details of designated bat conservation sites and suitable local habitats. 

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Field Surveys:

• Initial inspection of trees, buildings and other structures (both internal and external);

• Ground level and aerial inspections of trees;

• Detailed inspections of bridges;

• Dusk emergence and return to roost surveys to identify roost locations;

• Use of a wide range of Night Vision Aids, including Infra-red and Thermal Imaging; 

• Roost characterisation surveys to assess the type of roost;

• Walked transects and activity surveys to understand bat presence and foraging patterns;

• DNA analysis of bat droppings for species identification;

• Static monitoring, including deployment/collection of automated bat detectors and analysis of sound-recordings;

• Mitigation and licensing – including the Class Mitigation Licence.

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Licence applications - Aven Ecology have experience in applying for and holding Full Mitigation Licences for bats. Anna is also a Registered Consultant for the Class Mitigation Licence.