Ecological Survey: Update

The ecological survey for our North Walsham wind turbine site is well under way. This report from the surveyors, Wild Frontier Ecology, shows minor wildlife activity but nothing significant:

Vantage Point Bird Surveys

We have conducted 10 hours of vantage point survey in April and a further 8 hours this month. These surveys have so far recorded the following numbers of birds:

• Buzzard: 2
• Greylag Goose: 5
• Grey Heron: 1
• Kestrel: 20
• Mallard: 9
• Sparrowhawk: 6

These species and their level of occurrence are in line with what would be expected at a site such as this.

Common Bird Census

Two surveys have already been conducted with three more planned before July. So far the following species have been recorded exhibiting nesting/breeding/territorial behaviour on the site:

• Barn Owl
• Blackbird
• Blackcap
• Blue Tit
• Chaffinch
• Chiffchaff
• Collared Dove
• Dunnock
• Goldcrest
• Great Tit
• Greenfinch
• House Sparrow
• Lesser Whitethroat
• Linnet
• Pheasant
• Pied Wagtail
• Red‐legged Partridge
• Robin
• Starling
• Skylark
• Whitethroat
• Woodpigeon
• Wren
• Yellowhammer

These species and their level of occurrence are in line with what would be expected at a site such as this.

Bat Surveys

The May bat survey has been undertaken. Common Pipistrelle was the only species recorded, and in low numbers.

This survey was conducted on an unusually cool night, so subsequent surveys may reveal more species or higher numbers using the site, as nicer weather may increase bat activity.

Roe deer, rabbit, brown hare and grey squirrel have also been recorded on site.