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What to do if you find bats during building works

31 Oct 2024

Tom Smith standing with his arms crossed

Tom Smith

Associate Director - Ecology

As building projects progress, it’s not uncommon to encounter wildlife, particularly in areas where natural habitats intersect with urban environments. One of the most frequently encountered species is the bat. If you find bats during your construction or renovation works, it’s essential to follow the steps below to handle the situation with care and awareness of legal protections.

1. Stay calm and observe
If you spot a bat, the first step is to remain calm. Bats are generally harmless but are themselves sensitive to disturbance. It's crucial not to handle or attempt to capture the bat yourself or effect its roost space, as this can cause unnecessary harm to the animal and can be considered an offence under relevant legislation.

2. Stop work immediately

Stop any construction work in the immediate area where the bats or their roost were found. This includes drilling, hammering, or any other activities that could disturb the animals. Any artificial lighting being used should be switched off or removed. Ensure that all staff on-site are aware of the situation and that they do not disturb the area further.

3. Notify the project manager

Inform the project manager or site supervisor immediately. They will coordinate the next steps and ensure that the proper procedures are followed. It’s important that this information is communicated promptly to avoid further harm to the bats and to minimised disruption to the project timeline.

4. Contact a qualified ecologist

Work with a qualified ecologist at Pick Everard or a consultant with experience in bat conservation. We can assess the situation, identify the species involved, and advise on the appropriate course of action. In the UK, bats and their roosts are protected by law under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 and Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, so it’s crucial to consult with a professional.

5. Assess the legal implications

Understanding the legal protections surrounding bats is essential. Bats are a protected species, and it is illegal to disturb them or damage their roosting sites without a license. We will be able to provide guidance on whether any specific licenses or permissions are needed to continue work.

6. Conduct a bat survey

If bats are found, the next step is often to conduct a bat survey. This survey will help determine the characteristics of a roost and assess the potential impact of your project. We may recommend further surveys, particularly if the species encountered is rare, the project is located in a known sensitive bat area, or is likely to disturb a high-value roost.

7. Plan for mitigation

If a bat roost is confirmed, the project may require modifications to avoid or minimise the impact on the bats. This could include adjusting the construction schedule to avoid disturbance during the breeding season or providing alternative roosting sites for the bats. We will guide you through the necessary mitigation measures.

8. Communicate with stakeholders

Keep all stakeholders informed about the findings and any necessary changes to the project plan. Transparency is key, especially when timelines may be affected. Regular updates can help manage expectations and maintain positive relationships with clients, contractors, and local authorities.

9. Monitor the situation

Once the necessary steps are taken to mitigate the impact on the bats, ongoing monitoring may be required to ensure compliance with legal obligations and to assess the success of any mitigation measures implemented.

10. Educate your team

Finally, use this experience as a learning opportunity for your team. Educating site workers about the importance of wildlife conservation and the specific protections surrounding bats will ensure that everyone knows how to respond should bats be encountered in the future.

Encountering bats during building works may seem like a headache, but with the right knowledge and approach, it can be managed effectively. By prioritising wildlife conservation and adhering to legal requirements, we can ensure that our projects proceed smoothly while respecting the natural environment.

At Pick Everard, our commitment to sustainable practices includes working alongside experts to protect wildlife and promote biodiversity, ensuring that we build responsibly and ethically for the future.

Tom Smith standing with his arms crossed

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