Nesting Bird Survey Season

Lucion Group

22nd February, 2018

As part of obtaining planning permission, nesting bird survey reports and mitigation plans are needed for development projects that might affect protected species. These surveys need to show whether nesting birds are present in the area or nearby.

All wild birds (including both eggs and nests) are protected by law. Some species have additional protection when nesting. Many bird habitats are also protected and Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) have a duty to conserve their biodiversity. Below we offer some advice for developers on nesting bird survey season.

Nesting Bird Survey Season:		1st March - 31st August
Breeding Bird Survey Season:		15th March - 30th June
How long to allow for surveys:		Potentially across full survey season period
Notes:		Pre-construction/demolition checks need to be completed in advance of these season dates
Planning Risk:		Survey information is required during planning determination period, failure to provide may result in delays to determination or even refusal
Construction Risk:		Nesting birds on-site can cause major delays to site clearance works and/or demolition and impact on programme
Design Risk:		Potential requirement for on-site mitigation, impact on developable area

Download our Ecology Survey Calendar to see survey dates for species commonly encountered on development sites. Contact Ecology Manager, Charlotte Sanderson, for all enquiries.