The winter bird survey season commences on the 1st October and therefore it is important that any winter bird survey work required for the winter 2011 season is planned now in order to schedule adequate fieldwork. Generally initial ecological studies of an area determine whether a proposed development is likely to have an effect on birds and consequently whether a bird survey is likely to be required. In addition, bodies including the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Birdwatch Ireland and Planning Authorities often require that surveys be undertaken as part of the planning process.
Winter bird surveys are required where there is a possibility of impacts on wintering flocks of birds (often migratory species) or on the winter habitat of bird species of conservation importance. The information gained from bird surveys is often used to inform a design team on how to minimise potential impacts on birds and enhance the existing habitats on a site. Other surveys are used to monitor effects that developments may or may not be having on bird populations during the construction and operation stages.
The majority of bird species in Ireland are protected under the Wildlife Act 1972 (as amended) with exceptions being species considered to be agricultural pests. In addition to this, some species are offered protection under Annex I of the EU Birds Directive. In addition to legal protection surveys for a number of bird species that are on the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (BoCCI) red list are often required as part of the planning process. This list includes species whose breeding numbers have declined by 50% or more in recent years.
Wintering bird surveys need to be undertaken throughout the winter months (Oct –March inclusive). Lakes, turloughs, estuaries and coastal sites are often important habitats for wintering birds. Because birds move around, surveys need to be carried out repeatedly throughout the survey season (generally monthly) to build up an accurate picture of how any particular site is used. There are two widely used methods of conducting bird surveys, fixed-point observation and walking a defined transect. In fixed-point surveys, the observer counts birds from a fixed point or a number of fixed points. In transect surveys, the observer walks along a pre-determined route recording any birds seen or heard.
McCarthy Keville O'Sullivan have widespread experience of undertaking winter bird surveys on diverse projects such as road schemes, wind farms proposals and residential developments as well as various species and groups of birds such as wintering wildfowl and Greenland White-fronted Geese. If you have enquires concerning winter bird surveys, please contact our office on 091 735611.