Survey guidelines and research on bats, roads & rail for Defra

We were commissioned by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) to develop standardised and cost-effective methods for assessing the effects of linear transport infrastructure (such as roads and rail) on bats, and the effectiveness of mitigation such as crossing structures. 

Over two years, we developed and tested these methods while also assessing the effects of multiple road and rail schemes in the UK, and the effectiveness of some currently used mitigation measures. The methods we developed are quantitative, robust, replicable, and produce data suitable for statistical analysis. Importantly, they also allow for comparisons to be made before, during and after construction. We created clear survey protocols for use by conservation practitioners and the consultancy industry and made recommendations for best practice, management and appropriate mitigation solutions for future linear transport infrastructure schemes. 

We also provided specialist training courses on these methods for CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management).

Read the full report here or download the NRW (Natural Resources Wales) Guidance Note here.