Acer Ecology has undertaken an otter survey in Stroud on the River Frome.
Otters and their habitats are fully protected under the UK and European law. Where a development 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, therefore, crucial to detect if otters are present at an early stage of the planning process.
Our experienced ecologists are able to undertake surveys across Gloucestershire, including Stroud, Cirencester, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Tewkesbury and Bourton-on-the-Water. We are also able to provide our services to the surrounding counties of Monmouthshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Wiltshire, and Somerset.
Otter Surveys and Mitigation
Otter surveys may be undertaken at any time of year but may be limited by weather conditions and the extent of vegetation cover.
If otters are found, there are a number of mitigation strategies that may be required. Examples include locating site compounds away from riverine habitat, restricting lighting in 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 involve the creation of new 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 also be required to ensure that otters are not forced onto any of the 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 any of our other ecological services, please call our team on 02920 650 331, or email us at enquiries@acerecology.co.uk.
More information about otters can be found in our article – Things you Otter Know.
