Yes, it’s that time of year again – winter bird survey season is just around the corner.
While it may be called the ‘winter’ bird survey season, don’t be fooled by the name. Surveys typically take place between November and February, but the window often stretches from September right through to early or mid-March. This longer season accounts for both early autumn arrivals and the tail end of winter migratory movements – crucial periods for understanding how a site is used by overwintering and migratory species.
And while the dawns may be quieter, our work is far from it. Winter surveys mean swapping the morning melodies of songbirds for the subtle rustle of wings through hedgerows. They mean crouching in frosty fields, navigating thickets and puddles, and catching fleeting glimpses of ‘LBJs’ (that’s little brown jobs, for the uninitiated) vanishing into the undergrowth. It’s a different kind of challenge, but no less important.
If your site requires winter bird surveys, now’s the time to get in touch. Availability for these surveys is always limited, and our avian specialists are in high demand. Early contact ensures we can programme your surveys into our schedule and collect the necessary data in good time, helping to keep your project on track and in line with planning requirements.
So, if you’ve got a project that might need winter bird surveys, don’t delay. Speak to the team at Baker Consultants today by emailing info@bakerconsultants.co.uk or giving us a call on 01629 593 958.