Badger Surveys
Why are badger surveys required?
Badgers and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir setts (underground homes) are protected by law in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK, so it is crucial to identify Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir presence and understand Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ impact any proposed development may have on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir habitat. The survey findings help inform Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ planning process, allowing developers and local authorities to consider alternative designs or mitigation strategies to minimise disturbance to badger populations.
What happens during a badger survey?
A survey will look for signs of activity such as footprints, guard hairs, latrines, scratching posts and evidence of digging for food called ‘snuffle holes�.
If a development is so close to a Badger Sett that construction could put Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ animals at risk, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨n mitigation restricting development activity within close proximity of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sett or a ‘Sett Closure Licenseâ€� may be required.
Badgers have expanded Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir range and numbers significantly in recent years and have become a common sight even in urban environments. Their diet is extremely diverse and versatile, ranging from insects, worms and fallen fruit to birds eggs and small mammals.
Active throughout Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ year, badgers do not hibernate and will dig new setts at any time of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ year, preferring to dig into slopes or under features, such as sheds.
Badger Survey Schedule
Badger Surveys can be undertaken at any time of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ year, although Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨re is an optimum time during Spring or late Autumn/Winter, when setts and runs are less concealed by tall vegetation.
View our full survey calendar below:
Request a Quote
Contact us for a badger survey quote below.