Under the UK and European law, otters and their habitats are fully protected. If developments will affect otters or their resting places, a European Protected Species Licence will be required prior to the commencement of bank-side works.
It is important that the presence of otters is detected at an early stage of the planning process.
Our experienced ecologists are able to undertake surveys throughout Caerphilly county, including Rhymney, Blackwood, Bargoed, Ystrad Mynach and Rudry. We are also able to provide our services to the surrounding counties of Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Torfaen, Cardiff and Newport.
Otter surveys may be conducted at any time of year. However, weather conditions and the extent of vegetation cover may limit the survey.
If otters are found, mitigation strategies may include: locating site compounds away from riverine habitat, restricting lighting within the vicinity of the watercourse at night and preventing construction workers from going near the watercourse.
Where a significant loss of habitat is likely to occur as a result of a proposed development, mitigation may consist of the creation of habitat for otters and construction of artificial otter holts in sections of the watercourse which will remain unaffected by the works. Sympathetic bridge design and the installation of otter-proof fencing along existing or new roads may be required to ensure that otters are not forced onto any nearby carriageways during times of high water.
Our ecologists have designed successful mitigation strategies for developments found to be in close proximity to otter habitat allowing developments to go ahead with minimal disruption.
For more information about otter surveys, or regarding any of our other ecological services, call us on 029 2065 0331, or email our team on enquiries@acerecology.co.uk.
More information about otters can be found in our article – Things you Otter Know.