Overview
Survey work for bat roosts in trees should initially involve a ground-based scoping assessment. If potential roost features (PRF) are identified, follow up survey typically involves a combination of tree-climbing survey (also known as a PRF inspection survey) and/or presence/absence activity surveys. We are able to undertake all elements of specialist tree survey¹ for bats including:
- Preliminary ground-based assessment
- PRF Inspection survey (aerial survey/tree climbing survey)
- Dawn/dusk survey
- Roost characterisation survey
- Thermal Imaging survey
We also provide expert advice on impact avoidance, mitigation and licencing. We regularly work closely with tree surgeons, arboricultural consultants, developers and site managers to resolve issues. We can also provide training on bats to other professionals involved in tree work.
Tree Survey for bats
Preliminary ground-based assessment
This ground-based survey technique involves the identification of PRFs such as woodpecker holes, splits and cavities and is an important stage in identifying trees with bat potential and scoping further survey effort. We have carried out preliminary assessments on a very wide variety of proposed development sites, and in woodland and parkland habitats, some with concentrations of veteran and ancient trees. Our experience in tree climbing survey aids our ability to assess trees from ground-level.
Tree climbing survey (PRF Inspection Survey)
BSG Ecology undertakes tree climbing surveys (PRF inspection surveys) throughout the UK and has experience of co-ordinating large bat survey teams on large and complex development projects. We also regularly act as a sub-consultant to larger multidisciplinary environmental/engineering consultancies that are unable to carry out this specialist work in-house.
Tree climbing survey, a technique which uses ropes (although sometimes may involve other access equipment), allows a detailed inspection of potential roost features in areas of a tree which would otherwise be inaccessible. Our survey licences permit the use of endoscopes to fully inspect known or suspected bat roosts.