GREAT CRESTED NEWT

Great Crested Newts (GCN) are the largest of the UK's three native species of newt, with the adults growing to 15 cm in length. 

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The GCN is widely distributed throughout lowland Great Britain, however the distribution is extremely patchy. You might find them thriving in one seemingly perfect habitat, yet entirely absent from another similar location.

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Like many other species in Britain, the GCN suffered a marked decline in population in the latter part of the twentieth century; primarily as a result of changes in farming practices. As a result of this decline, the GCN is one of Britain's most strictly protected amphibians.

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Great Crested Newts are a European Protected Species (EPS). They are listed in Schedule 2 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2017), as well as Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). As such, it is an offence to capture, kill, disturb or trade a GCN, as well as damage, destruct or obstruct access to any structure or place they may use for shelter or protection. 

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Planning applications for developments will have to consider the potential to harm GCNs or their habitats. Aven Ecology can provide advice and recommendations to developers when undertaking works which may affect them, directly or indirectly.. If damage is unavoidable, we will assist in the application of a mitigation licence to permit the otherwise illegal activities.  

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We can provide the following services: 

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Desk Study - We undertake extensive and detailed desk-based searches of existing ecological information including known Great Crested Newt records in the local area, and details of designated conservation sites and habitats. 

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Field Surveys - An initial assessment such as a Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) Assessment will be undertaken to assess the potential for a waterbody to support breeding great crested newts, and thus determine the likelihood of GCNs being present and affected by the proposed works. The HSI will inform the need for subsequent surveys, including bottle trapping, egg searches, torch surveys, netting, pitfall trapping and refuge searches, as well as eDNA sampling and analysis.

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Licence applications - Aven Ecology has experience in applying for EPS licences where required. These licence applications include a method statement, work schedule, and reasoned statement; as well as a habitat management and maintenance plan. This licence permits developers to perform acts which would otherwise be considered illegal under the GCN legislation. Our ecologists will provide advice and undertake the appropriate surveys, impact assessments and mitigation plans to support the licence application.  

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Mitigation - Aven Ecology can provide advice on, and assist with mitigation and compensation methods, including habitat creation, restoration and enhancement of their aquatic and terrestrial habitats, capture and exclusion methods, as well as post-development habitat management, site maintenance and population monitoring.  We are also trained in the taking of eDNA samples from ponds to test for presence of GCN.