ECOFACT undertake habitat surveys and assessments on a routine basis for projects in the terrestrial environment. Freshwater and marine habitats are also subject to habitat surveys and habitat mapping, following many of the same methodologies.
Habitat surveys require accurate identification of the botanical communities present within a study area allows for the preparation of detailed habitat maps and an evaluation of the relative conservation importance of these habitats in respect of a specific site, region or, indeed, international context.
Habitat surveys and classification in Ireland primarily follows the Heritage Council publication ‘A Guide to Habitats in Ireland’ (Fossitt, 2000). ECOFACT habitat assessments utilise desk study resources including OSI historical six inch mapping, updated 1:20,000 and aerial photography, reference data on species distribution and satellite imagery to build a picture of a particular site or region, prior to undertaking the field survey element.
ECOFACT can provide detailed digital habitat surveys with mapping allowing for an evaluation of the status and conservation value of habitats recorded on site, with emphasis on integrity or fragmentation, pressures and evidence of non-native invasive species.
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We are experts in providing habitat surveys and assessments.
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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