Protected Species Surveys
Otter and water vole surveys
Otters are protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This legal protection makes it an offence to deliberately capture, kill, or disturb otters or to damage or destroy their resting places, such as holts and couches. Water voles, are also protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981,
We will also Provide a full GIS database containing all mapped sites; quality audit results and geolocated photographs; and access buffers.
Why do I need an otter or water vole survey?
The primary purpose of otter and water vole surveys is to establish their presence or absence, assess population size and distribution, and identify key habitat features to ensure legal compliance, inform ecological impact assessments, support planning applications, and guide conservation and habitat enhancement efforts.
When are otter and water vole surveys needed?
Otter and water vole surveys are required when proposed developments or land management activities are likely to impact suitable habitats such as rivers, streams, ditches, ponds, canals, wetlands, and other riparian habitats. Local Planning Authorities often require surveys to ensure compliance with wildlife protection laws.
Infrastructure projects such as road, rail, and bridge works.
Residential and commercial developments near water bodies.
Watercourse management or habitat restoration projects.
Flood defence works and drainage improvements.
Recent Success Story
In 2021, we provided ecological support to Wiltshire Council for essential safety works involving tree management along a riverbank. Our surveys identified evidence of water vole activity within the area.
Possible Outcomes
Below are the main report and supporting appendices, which together provide a comprehensive overview of our Open Space Assessments. The main report outlines the core findings and recommendations, while the appendices offer detailed data, methodologies, and supplementary materials that support and expand upon the main analysis:
No evidence of species detected
No further action required
Evidence of presence
Additional surveys or habitat assessments may be required to inform mitigation strategies.
Mitigation required
Measures may include buffer zones, exclusion fencing, or, very occasionally, translocation.
Compensatory measures
Designed to support development proposals and ensure compliance with legislation and planning policies.
Survey Process
Habitat assessment
The first step is a desk study and onsite habitat assessment, which evaluates the site’s potential to support breeding, wintering, or migratory bird species. This informs whether further surveys are required such as those listed below:
Presence/Absence Surveys
Presence/absence surveys are conducted to determine whether otters or water voles are present within a given area. These surveys involve searching for field signs such as:
Otter
Spraints, footprints, feeding remains, holts, and resting sites.
Water Vole
Burrows, latrines, feeding stations, footprints, and runs.
Why developers choose Ethos?
A wealth of knowledge
..surrounding quanitative otter and water vole surveys.
Holistic approach to riparian habitats
We recognise that otters and water voles are part of broader
ecosystems. Our survey work is integrated with riparian habitat enhancement to ensure long-term benefits for wildlife.
Adaptive mitigation strategies
We tailor mitigation plans to the specific site and species requirements, ensuring practical and effective solutions.
Strong stakeholder engagement
We work closely with developers, planners, and local conservation groups to deliver successful, collaborative projects.
Continued monitoring and support
Our services extend beyond initial surveys to include post-construction monitoring and advice, ensuring compliance and conservation success.
Expert knowledge of freshwater ecosystems
Our team has in-depth experience with riparian habitats, allowing us to provide specialist guidance for sensitive projects.
Receive a detailed breakdown
for your project
We provide tailored solutions to help you deliver high-quality, sustainable green spaces. Contact us today to discuss your needs. Whether you require:
Biodiversity net gain
Policy advice
Full strategy
Ecological assessments.
