Thomson’s experts have been conducting bird surveys for decades, and you can rely on our team for all ecosystem surveys, including terrestrial, freshwater, intertidal, and marine. Our techniques used are supported by the latest guidance from Bird Surveys & Assessment Steering Group and include British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) common bird census, vantage point, transects, Wetland Bird Surveys (WeBS), and Brown and Shepherd’s methodology for upland birds.
Following the survey work, we can undertake the required scientific and statistical analysis. For example, this can include territory analysis, population assessments, and collision risk assessments for wind farms.
Survey results can also be interpreted in relation to relevant legislation, such as the Wildlife and Countryside Act, the EIA Directive, the Habitats Directive, and local and national planning policy.
Wintering bird surveys
The survey season for wintering birds runs from October to March, depending on habitats and project brief. Early planning is key, as these surveys must often take place across the whole winter period to comply with Natural England and local planning authority expectations.
Winter bird surveys look at how construction or land changes could affect birds that spend the winter in the area, including geese, ducks and waders. They are usually needed near wetlands, estuaries, reservoirs or protected sites such as Special Protection Areas (SPAs). The results show whether a project could disturb feeding or roosting birds and help avoid issues during planning. Our team carries out these surveys for housing, energy, transport and coastal development projects.
Thomson’s ornithology team offers a full suite of services to support your development:
- Overwintering bird surveys.
- Wetland Bird Surveys (WeBS).
- Vantage point and flightline mapping.
- Functionally linked land assessments.
- HRA and EIA reporting input.
- GIS mapping and ecological interpretation.
Find out more about wintering bird surveys.
Breeding bird surveys
A breeding bird survey is a detailed process that involves assessing the presence and breeding activity of birds during the breeding season. Surveys of breeding birds are conducted between early Spring and summer, depending on the habitats present and species which may be present. Some more specialist species (e.g. crossbill) may require late winter surveys. Surveys entail walking the survey area, observing and listening to bird behaviour in order to map presence and record breeding activity. The information provided by this effort helps conservation teams and planners make well-informed decisions regarding birds and land use.
At Thomson, our ecologists carry out breeding bird surveys for projects of all sizes.
Find out more about breeding bird surveys.
What types of bird species are covered in our surveys?
In addition to carrying out surveys for breeding and non-breeding birds, we undertake specialist bird surveys for individual species such as those specially protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act. These species include nightjar, black redstart, peregrine falcon, hobby, little ringed plover, woodlark, Cetti’s warbler, stone curlew and other protected and priority species of birds. Get in touch to find out how we can assist.
Visit our ecology planner to find out when you should plan different surveys.
Frequently asked questions?
Why should you conduct a bird survey?
Birds are one of the best indicators of environmental health, and they are very sensitive to environmental changes. In addition to understanding environmental health through bird surveys, any changes to your land can impact the type and number of birds in an area. It is therefore important to conduct a bird survey if your developmental proposal could impact bird populations or their habitats.
Will I need a winter bird survey if I’m not near a designated site?
Possibly. Even land outside of protected areas can support significant bird populations. We can provide Ornithological Desk Study and statutory body consultation services to assess if winter bird surveys are likely to be needed.
Why choose Thomson for bird surveys?
Thomson’s surveyors have decades of experience monitoring birds across the UK. We always offer an efficient turnaround, and our data is logged using GIS-enabled mapping devices and delivered through rapid reporting. Find out more about our team here.
What types of bird surveys do we conduct?
At Thomson, we undertake all types of bird surveys during both the breeding and non-breeding seasons. Techniques used include common bird census, vantage point surveys, transects, Wetland Bird Surveys (WeBS), and Brown and Shepherd methodology for upland birds.
Get in touch with Thomson to get started
Are you unsure whether you need a bird survey, or are you looking for bird surveying services for your project? Get in contact with our friendly team to get started.
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