Species Profile:
Bats - Professional Bat Surveys in East Kilbride & Scotland
At EP Ecology, we provide licensed bat surveys throughout Scotland to help homeowners, developers, and land managers remain compliant with wildlife legislation. As bats and their roosts are protected under UK law, understanding when a bat survey is required is essential for any project involving buildings or trees.
From our base in East Kilbride, we offer fast, accurate Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRAs), emergence surveys, and full licensing support across Scotland. With reports typically delivered in 10 working days, we’re a trusted partner for efficient, professional bat surveys.
Why Choose EP Ecology for Your Bat Survey?
- Reports Delivered in 10 Working Days
- East Kilbride-Based Ecologists with Scotland-Wide Coverage
- Fully Licensed Bat Surveyors (Class Licences)
- Trusted by Architects, Developers & Planning Consultants
- Surveys Compliant with UK & Scottish Legislation (CIEEM / NatureScot)
Get a Free Quote Today
Need a bat survey in East Kilbride, Glasgow, Lanarkshire or further afield?
Call our expert team or use our contact form to receive a no-obligation quote.
Why Are Bat Surveys Required in Scotland?
Bats are classed as a European Protected Species and are fully protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994. This makes it a criminal offence to:
- Disturb bats or obstruct their access to roosts
- Damage or destroy a bat roost, even if bats are not present at the time
If your proposed development affects a building, tree, or structure that may provide roosting features, you’ll likely need a bat survey to proceed with planning permission.
You may need a bat survey if:
- You’re converting or demolishing a building (especially older or rural properties)
- The site includes trees with cavities, ivy cover or woodpecker holes
- You’re doing loft conversions or roof repairs
- The project is near woodland, hedgerows, or watercourses
- You’re installing outdoor lighting in sensitive habitats
Failing to assess for bats can result in enforcement action, legal penalties, and planning delays.
Understanding Bat Ecology in Scotland
The UK is home to 18 species of bat, 10 of which are found in Scotland. These nocturnal mammals typically roost in:
- Loft spaces
- Roof tiles or eaves
- Trees with natural holes or cracks
- Bridges, tunnels, and outbuildings
Bats are highly seasonal. They hibernate during winter (December to February), have pups in summer, and change roosts frequently. Even a seemingly inactive roost is legally protected.
Common species in Scotland include:
- Common pipistrelle
- Soprano pipistrelle
- Brown long-eared bat
- Daubenton’s bat
- Natterer’s bat
Each species has specific habitat preferences and legal implications.
How Our Bat Surveys Work
All surveys follow CIEEM best practice and NatureScot guidelines. The approach used depends on the type of survey happening.
Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA)
The first stage of any bat assessment, this includes:
- Visual inspection of buildings, trees, or structures
- Search for droppings, feeding remains, or roosting features
- Use of ladders, endoscopes, and torches to check cavities
- DNA testing of droppings if needed
This assessment can take place year-round.
Emergence & Re-Entry Surveys (May-August)
If a PRA finds signs of bat use or potential roost features, dusk surveys are needed. These involve:
- Visual monitoring at dusk
- Use of bat detectors, thermal/infrared cameras
- Identification of species, entry/exit points, and roost type
A minimum of 2-3 surveys is typically required, spaced three weeks apart.
Hibernation Surveys (December-February)
Hibernation surveys assess bat presence during the colder months and involve:
- Inspection of winter roosting sites
- Use of static detectors and direct observation
- Supporting planning for winter works
What Happens If Bats Are Found?
If bats are confirmed on site, you may need to:
- Delay works until the end of the bat season
- Install bat boxes or artificial roosts as compensation
- Apply for a NatureScot development licence
We’ll guide you through:
- Mitigation planning
- Habitat enhancement options
- NatureScot licence applications
Finding bats doesn’t mean your project must stop, but it does mean extra care is required.
Where We Work
From our base in East Kilbride, we deliver professional bat surveys throughout:
- Glasgow & Greater Glasgow
- Lanarkshire
- Ayrshire
- Edinburgh
- Stirling
- Fife
- And across mainland Scotland
Unsure if we cover your area? Just get in touch.
About EP Ecology
Founded in 2020, EP Ecology is a specialist ecological consultancy supporting developers, architects, and landowners across Scotland. We’re proud to combine:
- In-depth ecological expertise
- Fast, planning-ready reporting
- Local knowledge of Scottish habitats and legislation
- Ethical, conservation-focused solutions
We regularly work on:
- Residential developments
- Infrastructure upgrades
- Renewable energy projects
- Commercial refurbishments
Book Professional Bat Surveys in East Kilbride or Scotland Today
Avoid costly planning delays and stay legally compliant with EP Ecology’s trusted bat survey services.
📞 Call us: 01355 457577
📧 Email us: info@epecology.co.uk
💬 Fill out our quick enquiry form
