Breeding Bird Surveys

Connor Wild
Dec 17
2 min read

Professional Breeding Bird Surveys for Planning & Development

Elite Ecology provides professional Breeding Bird Surveys to support planning applications and development projects across the UK. Our experienced ecologists assess development sites to identify breeding bird species, nesting activity, and habitat use, ensuring developments comply with wildlife legislation and planning policy.

All wild birds, their nests, and eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) during the breeding season. Certain species listed under Schedule 1 receive additional protection. Breeding Bird Surveys are therefore essential where works could result in disturbance, habitat loss, or harm to nesting birds.

When is a Breeding Bird Survey Required?

A Breeding Bird Survey may be required if:

Vegetation clearance, demolition, or construction is proposed during the bird breeding season
A site contains suitable nesting habitat (trees, hedgerows, scrub, buildings)
Protected or notable bird species are known or suspected to be present
A planning condition requests further ornithological assessment

Surveys are typically undertaken between March and August, depending on species and site conditions.

Our Breeding Bird Survey Services

We offer:

Breeding bird surveys covering all bird species
Targeted surveys for Schedule 1 species, where required
Identification of nesting activity, territories, and habitat use
Impact assessment and constraints mapping
Mitigation and compensation measures to protect breeding birds and support planning approval

Our recommendations help avoid offences, minimise delays, and allow developments to proceed responsibly.