Great crested newt mitigation

Making a Splash: Your Guide to Great Crested Newt Licence Training

If you’re passionate about amphibians and conservation, obtaining a great crested newt (GCN) licence is an essential step for working with this protected species. Great crested newts (Triturus cristatus) are safeguarded by law due to their declining populations, and handling or disturbing them requires proper licensing. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the journey toward achieving your GCN licence.


1. Understand Licensing Requirements

In the UK, GCN licences are issued by:

The licence allows you to handle, disturb, or move great crested newts during surveys or mitigation projects, which is crucial for ecological consultancy and conservation work. To qualify, you need to demonstrate competence in survey techniques, species identification, and mitigation strategies.


2. Learn About Great Crested Newts

Develop a solid foundation of knowledge about GCNs, including:

  • Biology: Study their lifecycle, from eggs to larvae, through to juvenile and adult stages.
  • Ecology: Understand their habitat requirements, such as breeding ponds and terrestrial refuges.
  • Behavior: Learn about their seasonal movements, breeding habits, and feeding patterns.

Resources like the Great Crested Newt Conservation Handbook and webinars from conservation organisations are invaluable for gaining this knowledge.


3. Gain Practical Experience

Hands-on experience is key to building the skills required for GCN surveys.

  • Join Local Amphibian Groups: Many groups conduct GCN surveys and habitat restoration projects.
  • Volunteer with Licensed Ecologists: Assisting experienced professionals allows you to observe and participate in methods like torch surveys, egg searches, and bottle trapping.
  • Attend Training Courses: Enrol in courses offering field-based learning on GCN surveys and mitigation.

4. Master Survey Techniques

GCN surveys often involve:

  • eDNA Surveys: Collecting and analysing water samples from ponds to detect traces of DNA shed by the species
  • Torchlight Surveys: Spotting newts in ponds at night using a powerful torch.
  • Bottle Trapping: Deploying and checking traps to capture newts temporarily for study.
  • Egg Searches: Identifying newt eggs folded in aquatic vegetation.
  • Habitat Assessment: Evaluating ponds and surrounding terrestrial habitats for suitability.

Practice these methods under supervision to gain confidence and proficiency.


5. Build Your Portfolio

Document your experience thoroughly to demonstrate your skills and knowledge. Include:

  • Dates and locations of surveys
  • Methods used and observations made
  • Your role and level of involvement
  • Specific details about GCN findings and habitat conditions

A comprehensive portfolio is essential for your licence application. CIEEM have produced guidance and a Sample Logbook on the requirements. You can download this as a word document.

Applicants for great crested newt survey licences are expected to gain practical experience under the supervision of a licensed great crested newt surveyor, alongside personal study and structured education. The CIEEM guidance states that this should include:

  • HSI Calculations: Assess at least 20 Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) scores across a minimum of 10 different sites, covering diverse water body types to understand how each index factor impacts the overall score.
  • Surveys: Conduct surveys of at least 20 water bodies at a minimum of 10 sites, supervised by a licence holder. Each water body must be surveyed using at least three techniques per visit (e.g., bottle trapping and torch counts). Great crested newts should be found in at least half of the surveyed sites.
  • Hands-on Tasks: Personally carry out bottle trap setup, retrieval, emptying, and resetting. Handle, identify, sex, age, and release newts under supervision.

All experience must be recorded in a portfolio for submission with the licence application.


6. Understand GCN Legislation and Conservation

Great crested newts are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. Learn about:

  • The legal requirements for handling and surveying GCNs
  • Habitat management practices to support GCN populations
  • Mitigation strategies used in development projects

7. Attend GCN Licence Training Courses

Specialist training courses are invaluable for building your knowledge and practical skills. Look for providers offering sessions on:

  • Survey methods
  • Legal considerations
  • Practical fieldwork experience

Recommended training providers include:


8. Apply for Your Licence

When you’ve gained sufficient experience and knowledge, apply for your GCN licence through the relevant statutory body. Applications typically require:

  • A detailed portfolio of your survey and handling experience
  • References from licensed ecologists who can vouch for your skills

9. Stay Engaged and Continue Learning

After obtaining your licence, remain active in the field and continue expanding your knowledge.

  • Networking: Join organisations like ARC and local amphibian groups to connect with peers and access resources.
  • Professional Development: Attend workshops, conferences, and training events to stay informed about best practices and new techniques.
  • Contribute to Conservation: Participate in habitat restoration projects and citizen science initiatives to support GCN populations.

Final Thoughts

Training for a great crested newt licence requires patience, dedication, and a passion for amphibians. The journey may be demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding, opening doors to meaningful work in ecological consultancy and conservation. Dive in, stay curious, and make a splash in protecting this remarkable species.