Trees, hedges and scrub can provide nesting, roosting, shelter and feeding habitat. Wildlife considerations therefore form part of planning tree work, not an extra check added at the end.
Wildlife aware tree work
Before work begins, we look for visible signs that protected wildlife or an active habitat may be present. The level of inspection depends on the tree, the site, the season and the proposed work.
- Preliminary checks before tree and hedge work
- Assessment of features that may offer bat roosting potential
- Careful planning around nesting activity and other sensitive habitat
- Aerial inspection where a closer look is needed and access is safe
- Referral for specialist ecological advice where the evidence or project requires it
If wildlife is found
Work is paused where there is a concern that continuing could cause harm or disturb a protected feature. We then agree the appropriate next step, which may involve changing the method, delaying the work or obtaining advice from a suitably qualified ecologist or the relevant authority.
Good planning can often protect wildlife while still allowing necessary tree work to proceed at the right time and by the right method.
Contact Tree Matters if your proposed work involves trees with cavities, dense ivy, nesting activity or other wildlife concerns.