OUR SERVICES
Applying Ecological Science to the Real World
GULL INTERGRATED MANAGEMENT PLANS
Until recently, Natural England allowed control measures such as egg and nest removal, but following declines in the non-urban populations, this permission has been removed. Now, any applications must be supported by an Integrated Management Plan (IMP) demonstrating the need for licensed control. We are experts in gull biology and have prepared several IMPs for e.g. international airports and nuclear installations.
Our IMPs include an assessment of all factors driving colony growth, including identification of high-energy food sources (required for colony growth). This approach allows us to make effective management recommendations for both local and population level control.
Gulls started nesting in urban areas in the middle of the 20th Century, since when, their populations have increased rapidly throughout the UK. Nesting birds can be a nuisance and threaten public health.
INDUSTRY
Our familiarity with all levels of designation (from SPA/RAMSAR to local nature reserve) means we understand exactly what is needed to support applications and provide suitable mitigation measures where these might be required.
In support of planning applications, we regularly provide monitoring design, implementation and analysis services. This allows us to identify any impacts and make design suggestions to minimise these. Where an impact is unavoidable, we know how to design suitable mitigation and were responsible for the largest Brownfield to Nature Reserve development in Europe!
Combined with our experience in preparing Impact Assessments and Environmental Statements - we are able to offer our clients the full ecological package from concept stage to successful implementation.
We offer everything ecological that development might require, to ensure the best chance of gaining planning approval - as our track record demonstrates!
AVIATION
Our expert knowledge on conflicts between aviation and conservation has led to our involvement in major planning applications and inquiries, including the recent London Ashford (Lydd) Airport Public Inquiry where we appeared as Expert Witnesses.
Our practical and academic knowledge of bird behaviour allows us to offer cutting-edge advice on the reduction of Birdstrike Risk. We are also very experienced in monitoring Birdstrike risk, through annual Bird Hazard and Safeguarding Zone Bird Hazard Assessments. The information gained from these studies allow us to recommend changes to (or to re-write!) existing Bird Control Management Plans (BCMP).
For developments in the vicinity of airports, we can prepare industry-standard Bird Hazard Assessments, leading to appropriate (and even innovative) BCMPs that maximise any developer's chances of a successful application.
Experts in Aviation Ornithology, we offer the full range of services a modern airport needs to meet its statutory requirements and more. From annual Birdstrike monitoring to planning applications for International Airports we cover it all.
ECOLOGICAL SURVEYS AND MITIGATION
From feral geese in urban parks to Critically Endangered species in Africa our knowledge and experience of ecological surveys allow us to tackle anything!
We cover all species of conservation significance in the UK, including great crested newt, natterjack toad, red squirrel, badger, otter and bats.
Our knowledge of bird surveying is second to none - In fact, we even lecture on this at the Centre for Wildlife Conservation! We can not only use all techniques effectively but should the need arise, we can even design site-specific methods.
We have been engaged by many organisations to perform habitat and floral surveys, including highly specialised surveys of tricky groups (e.g. mosses in the "Flow Country" for Scottish Natural Heritage).
In terms of mitigation, we are experienced in preparing Site Protection Plans for individual species and have designed habitats for many key species. Our use of the most up-to-date methods has led to several of our "new" habitats achieving SSSI status, sometimes in as little as 2-3 years!
We understand wildlife!
“We perform to the highest possible standards, but still remember how important it is to communicate with our clients - I promise - no jargon!”
Dr Roy Armstrong - Senior Partner