Invertebrate Surveys

Our services

Initial site walk-over to assess all habitats for potential use by invertebrate target groups;
Terrestrial macroinvertebrate surveys using a range of methods including sweep-netting, pan-trapping, pitfall-trapping, MV light-trapping, malaise-trapping, suction sampling and beating bushes and trees;
Calculation of indices to assess site value for biodiversity;
Aquatic invertebrate surveys, including water quality assessment (BMDP, ASPT);
Habitat design and creation for invertebrate target groups;
Survey under licence for white-clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes by hand-searching, trapping or torching;
Design and creation of new crayfish habitat; and
Trapping and translocation of white-clawed crayfish under licence.

ESL currently have 3 personnel licensed to undertake white-clawed crayfish surveys. For other invertebrate surveys we have an associate senior ecologist.

Timing of surveys

For terrestrial macroinvertebrates surveys should be carried out through at least one full year, since different groups and species have different activity periods. These surveys are also very weather dependent on several scales, since poor (cold and/or wet) weather will affect both timing of emergence for particular species and the likelihood of flight on a particular day.

Surveys for aquatic invertebrates are less sensitive to season, but methods involving handling crayfish should avoid times when females may be berried.

Why survey for Invertebrates?

Some species, including white-clawed crayfish have statutory protection and/or UK Biodiversity Action Plans. The level of protection given varies, and advice should be sought where relevant.

Services

Think we can help you? Contact us to find out,
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ESL - Ecological Services