Bird surveys: Breeding bird surveys are conducted in suitable habitat within 500m of the site boundary using a modified version of the BTO/JNCC Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) to record the number and species of all adult birds on the survey site. The site is visited on a minimum of four occasions, three at dawn and one at dusk. On each visit a predetermined transect is walked at slow pace and all birds encountered along the transect are identified by sight or by sound and recorded on a location map using the standard BTO codes.
During these breeding bird surveys details notes are taken regarding details such as sex, age (juvenile or adult) and activity. Where possible birds are not recorded more than once. Any nests, or suspected nest locations, located during the course of the survey are marked on the map. Weather conditions are monitored to ensure that it is not too windy or rainy during the breeding bird survey. For more information on the Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) methodology please click here.
We also have extensive experience of Vantage Point Surveys for proposed wind farm sites. Breeding raptor studies are undertaken using standard methodologies (i.e. SNH methods). We have extensive experience in relation to Hen Harriers, and are currently undertaking Hen Harrier Surveys throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland. Our surveyors also have vast experienced in carrying out vantage point surveys following standard methodology such as Scottish Natural Heritage’s manual ‘Recommended bird survey methods to inform impact assessment of onshore wind farms‘.
We also regularly undertake breeding bird surveys for other priority species, including Red Grouse, Merlin, Golden Plover, Curlew, Peregrine Falcon, and Lapwing. ECOFACT staff have vast experience in the preparation of ornitholgical impact assessments for proposed wind farm developments. We also have extensive experience in preparing Article 6 Appropriate Assessments (or Natura Impact Statements) for wind farm sites potentially affecting Special Protection Areas (and other Natura 2000 sites).
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) published new guidance in January 2019 for bats surveys at wind farm sites. These new guidelines are entitled “Bats and onshore wind turbines – survey, assessment and mitigation”. The document incorporates findings from the latest research on the impact of wind farms on bats. It is endorsed by all the statutory […]
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We are one of the leading companies in Ireland providing mammal surveys and assessments. We provide expert advise on both bats and terrestrial non-volant (i.e. non-flying) mammals. We undertake surveys for all terrestrial non-volant mammal species in Ireland, including Badger, Otter, Red Squirrel, Pine Marten, and non-native American Mink, among others. Our staff are fully […]
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We were delighted to work recently with BBC Earth on a documentary on Sea Lampreys Petromyzon marinus. The filming took place during early-June 2017 on the old River Shannon at Castleconnell, Co Limerick. This is part of the Lower River Shannon Special Area of Conservation, and Sea Lampreys are a key conservation interest of this […]
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A major new book will be published in May 2017 entitled ‘Wildlife and Wind Farms: Conflicts and Solutions’. Volume 1 of this book includes a chapter prepared by Ecofact Principal Ecologist Dr. William O’Connor. The two-volume set provides a comprehensive overview of the interactions between wind farms and wildlife, each volume dedicated to one of the two […]
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Our staff are currently undertaking a number of wintering bird surveys in the Irish Midlands. Here we have provided some photos and videos from bird surveys we undertook during December 2015. Our bird surveys are undertaken to inform both the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) reports being prepared for proposed wind energy […]
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