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Water vole surveys look for evidence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ form of burrows, latrines, feeding remains and runs. An experienced ecologist is able to identify Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ differences between water vole and rat habitats.

Water voles are fully protected under Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. If any development is to be conducted on or near to a water body that has Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ potential to support water voles Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨n a survey will be necessary to determine if Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y are present.

They can be found on slow-flowing water courses, wet ditches, ponds, lakes and canals. They prefer well vegetated banks with taller plants and reed beds, burrowing into Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sides and foraging on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ vegetation.

An ecologist will visit Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ site and undertake a search for droppings (latrines), burrows, footprints and feeding stations along Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ edge of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ water body.

Once Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ water vole survey findings have been collated, a comprehensive report will be generated to accompany your planning application. If Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ survey identifies Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ presence of water voles on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ site, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ report will detail mitigation measures that must be adhered to in order to ensure compliance with relevant policies and legislation.

Mitigation measures may include creating new suitable habitats and compensatory planting.