EcoVigour provides professional badger surveys to support planning and ensure compliance with wildlife legislation. Our surveys identify setts and activity to inform mitigation and avoid delays to your project. Badgers and their setts are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. EcoVigour delivers comprehensive badger surveys to support development projects and ensure legal compliance. Why are badger surveys required? Badger surveys are required where suitable habitat is present or where development may affect setts. They help to:

• • Ensure compliance with relevant legislation

• • Identify the location and status of badger setts

• • Assess potential impacts of development

• • Inform mitigation, licensing, and timing of works

Survey methods Our surveys are carried out in line with Natural England guidance and CIEEM best practice, and typically include:

• • Walkover surveys to identify setts, paths, latrines, and foraging signs

• • Sett classification (main, annex, subsidiary, or outlier)

• • Activity assessment to determine current use

• • Camera trapping (where required) to confirm activity levels

Survey methodology and seasonal constraints

• • Surveys can be undertaken year-round, although:
    • • Winter and early spring are often optimal due to reduced vegetation
    • • Dense summer vegetation may limit visibility

• • Licences are required for works affecting active setts, with seasonal constraints applying

Survey timing and methodology are designed to ensure robust and compliant results. Our approach

• • Thorough surveys by experienced ecologists

• • Clear identification of constraints and risks

• • Practical mitigation and licensing support

• • Advice aligned with project timelines and planning requirements.