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Birds

All wild birds (along with their nests and young) are protected by law, some species that are rare and/or vulnerable (listed on ‘Schedule 1’ of the ‘Wildlife and Countryside Act’) have additional protection. Schedule1 birds are protected from ‘intentional or reckless disturbance whilst at or near their nests’. If bird's nests, whether in use or under construction, are present any work with the potential to damage or destroy the nest, eggs or young must stop. This includes any work likely to cause the adult birds to desert the nest. Nesting sites and potential nesting sites should only be inspected by an experienced ecologist. The nest sites of Schedule 1 listed species can only be visited if the ecologist has a licence specific to that species.
In the UK nesting activity takes place between March and August (depending on the species) with the peak months being between May and June. There are, however, some exceptions as species like the Blackbird and Collared Dove have been known to breed in any month of the year, the Schedule 1 listed Barn Owl may also breed outside the March to August ‘window’.
Nest sites are highly species specific, some species are ground nesting others preferring trees, some species such as House Martins, Swallows and Swifts are highly dependent on buildings which has obvious implications for building restorations and conversions.  

Morelia Ecology can offer a full range bird surveys including the following;

  • Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS)

  • Wintering Bird Surveys

  • Vantage Point Surveys

  • Advice on nest box siting and installation

Morelia Ecology Breeding Bird Surveys follow the standard BTO methodology which involves a minimum of four site visits between April and June.

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