Water Vole Surveys
Water vole surveys are an essential part of development projects involving waterways. They are used to identify the presence of water voles and their habitats, which are legally protected. These surveys help ensure compliance with environmental regulations and support the implementation of appropriate measures to avoid impacts on local ecosystems.
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Why are water voles surveyed?
Water voles are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and are listed as a Species of Principal Importance (SPI). It is an offence to harm, disturb, or damage their places of shelter or protection.​
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Surveys are therefore essential to assess presence and ensure appropriate measures are in place to protect populations.
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When do I need to have a water vole survey?
If a site provides suitable habitat or shows evidence of water voles, and may be affected by a proposal, their presence or likely absence must be established.
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A water vole survey involves searching watercourses, waterbodies, banks, and surrounding vegetation for signs or individuals. Surveys can be carried out at any time of year, although winter and periods of dense vegetation are generally less suitable and should be avoided where possible.
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What does Abrehart Ecology offer?
At Abrehart Ecology we offer professional, skilled, and efficient water vole survey work. We undertake in-house fieldwork and expert report writing, with our employees.
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Evidence we search for includes tracks, droppings, feeding areas, and burrows.