Barn Owl Surveys
Barn Owls & the Law
Barn owls are protected in the UK under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it an offence to kill, injure, take, or disturb barn owls, or to damage or destroy an active nest or its eggs. Protection applies while nests are active, typically until all young have become independent. Early ecological assessment helps identify active nests and reduces the risk of legal or planning issues during development.
When is a Barn Owl Survey Required?
Barn owl surveys are usually needed where proposed works could disturb potential nesting or roosting features, including barns, lofts, old buildings, or mature trees. Even if barn owls have not been previously recorded on site, surveys may be required if suitable habitat is present. Completing surveys early ensures they are carried out in the correct season and provides the evidence needed to support planning applications and any required mitigation.
Typical habitat
Barn Owls can be found throughout most of the UK. Barn Owl habitat is closely linked to their prey species. The most ideal habitat for Barn Owls is rough grassland with tussocky native grass species and a deep litter layer. This habitat is best for Field Voles, Common Shrews and Wood Mice, which constitute the majority of their prey.
In addition to hunting habitat, Barn Owls require roosting and nesting habitat. Most often this is in rural buildings and tree hollows. However, the number of suitable rural buildings is decreasing, with most being converted or too degraded. Nowadays, nest boxes constitute the majority of nest sites.
Barn Owl surveys
Most Barn Owl nests or roosts can be found during a detailed search of the premises for signs of pellets, feathers, nest debris, or faeces.
This search can be undertaken as part of a Phase I survey, or separately at any time of the year. Nesting surveys (to determine if a nest is active) can only be undertaken during the nesting season, considered to be March to June. Wintering surveys can also be carried out between November and February if required.
If it is unknown if a nest is currently active, trail cameras may also occasionally be used. However, their use is restricted due to possible disturbance to the owls.
What a Barn Owl Survey Includes
A typical barn owl survey may involve:
Detailed site inspection for evidence of nesting or roosting, such as pellets, feathers, nest debris, or faeces
Assessment of potential nest or roost sites in buildings, barns, lofts, or mature trees
Classification of nests as active or inactive
Recommendations for mitigation, if nests are present, to ensure compliance with planning requirements and wildlife legislation
Surveys can be carried out as part of a Phase I ecological assessment or separately, depending on the site and project needs. Our team ensures that the survey scope is proportionate to the site and development risk.
Our experience with Barn Owls
We can provide a team to deliver reliable survey information carried out to the highest standards. We have a number of experienced surveyors who have gained considerable expertise in identifying Barn Owl signs and pellets and implementing a scheme of mitigation if required.
FAQ’s
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Surveys are usually required where proposed works could disturb potential nesting or roosting features, such as barns, lofts, old buildings, or mature trees. Even if no barn owls have been previously recorded, the presence of suitable habitat may trigger a survey requirement as part of planning submissions.
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Nest surveys are most effective between March and June, when nests are active and evidence is most reliable. Wintering surveys can be conducted between November and February. Conducting surveys in the correct season ensures the results can be used confidently for planning applications and mitigation planning.
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If an active nest is identified, mitigation may be required to avoid disturbance during sensitive periods. Our reports support planning submissions and provide the information needed to guide any necessary mitigation or licence applications, helping you remain compliant with UK wildlife legislation.
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