Tree & Bat Survey

A Tree and Bat Survey in the UK assesses the presence of bats in trees that may be affected by development. Bats are a legally protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. Any work involving tree removal, trimming, or construction near trees with bat roost potential requires a survey to ensure compliance with environmental laws.

The survey typically begins with a Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA), where ecologists inspect trees for features like cavities, cracks, or loose bark that could house bats. If necessary, further surveys, such as dusk and dawn activity surveys using bat detectors, may follow. The findings determine whether mitigation measures, such as bat boxes or adjusted construction schedules, are needed to protect bat populations while allowing development to proceed responsibly.