At HalpinRobbins, we specialise in providing legally compliant surveys for water voles and otters. Whether you're a developer or landowner, our licensed ecologists deliver efficient, cost-effective assessments to help your projects move forward with confidence.
The water vole Arvicola amphibius is protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), making it an offence to intentionally kill, injure, or take a water vole, or to damage, destroy, or obstruct access to any structure or place used for shelter or protection. Disturbing a water vole while it is occupying such a place is also illegal.
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If water voles are found to be present in an area where development is proposed, a development licence may be required from the relevant statutory body, such as Natural England, Natural Resources Wales, or NatureScot. Suitable mitigation measures may include habitat creation, translocation, or provision of artificial refuges during construction works.
The European otter Lutra lutra is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended). It is an offence to kill, injure, or disturb an otter, or to destroy any place it uses for rest or shelter.
Our services include:
Otter surveys can be undertaken year-round. If a site contains or is adjacent to water features such as rivers, streams, canals, lakes, or ponds, it is likely that an otter survey will be required.
With decades of combined ecological experience, our team is here to simplify the survey process for both developers and landowners. We provide clear advice, reliable reporting, and compliant strategies tailored to your site's unique needs.
Take a look at some of our work - Case Studies
Explore our other ecological consultancy services:
Our staff maintain and enhance their knowledge of ecology and the environment through research, specialist training and by maintaining membership of several professional and specialist bodies including:
If you wish to find out more about permitting, ecology services or to discuss a project or development please contact us directly for a free, non-committal discussion.
"Nothing is too much trouble and the two way communication is second to none. I would not hesitate to recommend HalpinRobbins to anyone and we wouldn`t even contemplate going anywhere else."
Samantha Southam - Managing Director
Falcon Rural Housing Limited
View TestimonialsOffice 1-3, Maidendown Stage, Burlescombe, Devon, EX16 7JX
