BERS/Phase 2 Bat Survey

We specialise in Phase 2/BERS surveys and follow the professional training standards for bat Ecologists as set out by the Bat Conservation Trust. Contact us to learn more about our vision and approach.

With all the correct equipment and experience working on some of the UKs largest ecology projects we've got you covered.

Once you have completed an initial survey we can take over, we conduct dusk and dawn surveys between May - September

BERS/Phase 2 Bat Survey

In the UK, a Phase 2 bat survey is a detailed investigation conducted to assess the presence, distribution, and activity of bats within a specific area. These surveys are typically required when initial Phase 1 surveys (such as Preliminary Ecological Appraisals or Preliminary Roost Assessments) indicate that bats might be present and potentially impacted by proposed developments.

Purpose of a Phase 2 Bat Survey

The main objectives of a Phase 2 bat survey are to:

Confirm the presence or likely absence of bats.
Identify the species present.
Understand the use of the site by bats (e.g., roosting, foraging, commuting).
Determine the significance of any bat activity in relation to the proposed development.

Methods Used in Phase 2 Bat Surveys

Phase 2 bat surveys involve more intensive and specific methods compared to Phase 1 surveys. Common techniques include:

You need to have this phase 1 completed

Phase 1
- Internal and External Inspections: Detailed inspections of buildings, trees, and other structures using ladders, endoscopes, and thermal imaging cameras to find signs of bats.

What We Do during Phase 2

- Field Surveys: Conducted at appropriate times of the year when bats are most active (usually between May and September in temperate regions). This can include:
  - Use IR camera equipment and experienced surveyors to conduct Emergence/Re-entry Surveys: Observing bat activity at dusk and dawn to see bats emerging from or returning to roosts.
  - Activity Surveys: Using bat detectors to record bat calls and identify species through echolocation

2. Survey Methods:

Visual Surveys: Conducted by ecologists to spot bats
Acoustic Surveys: Using devices like bat detectors to capture and analyse bat calls.

Data Analysis: Identification and analysis of bat species using sonogram data and IR camera footage, numbers, and activity patterns from the field data. This helps in understanding the importance of the site for bats.
Impact Assessment: Evaluating the potential impact of the proposed development on bats and their habitats, including potential loss of roosts, foraging areas, and commuting routes.
Mitigation Strategies: Development of recommendations to avoid, minimize, or mitigate negative impacts on bats. This can include timing restrictions on work, creating alternative roosting sites, and habitat enhancement.

3. Report

Our report will cover everything you need to submit for you planning application.

Timing and Seasonal Considerations

Phase 2 bat surveys are usually conducted during the bat active season, which runs from May to September, with the peak activity period being between June and August. The timing is crucial to ensure accurate results, as bat activity varies seasonally.