At Northern Insight Ecology, we offer detailed badger sett surveys designed to assist with planning applications, construction projects, and land management initiatives. We ensure that your project remains in full compliance with UK wildlife legislation, enabling you to move forward responsibly, lawfully, and on a timely basis.

 

With substantial experience conducting badger sett surveys and developing species protection and mitigation plans across Scotland and northern England, we have contributed to a range of projects, including road and railway developments.

 

Legal Protection

The Protection of Badgers Act 1992 protects badgers and their setts. It is illegal to:

• Damage, destroy, or block access to a sett;

• Disturb badgers in a sett.

Development within 30 metres of a sett usually requires a licensed ecological survey. Violations can lead to significant fines, delays, or legal action.

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When Is a Badger Survey Needed?

A badger survey may be required if your project includes:

• Residential or commercial development.

• Road or infrastructure construction.

• Tree felling, excavation, or groundworks.

• Agricultural or landscaping modifications.

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Surveys are often part of the planning process, especially if the site is in known badger habitats or early assessments indicate potential activity, such as during a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) survey. Refer to the PEA page for further information.

 

Badger Survey Services

Our Badger surveys are customised for each site and may include the following:

• PEA – An initial site visit to evaluate habitat suitability.

• Sett Survey – Identifying and mapping active or inactive badger setts.

• Field Signs Assessment – Checking for tracks, latrines, hair, and foraging evidence.

• Seasonal Surveys – Monitoring activity over time as needed.

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Mitigation Advice & Licensing – Providing information on how to avoid disturbance and, if necessary, support with NatureScot licence applications.

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Contact Northern Insight Ecology for more information; we will coordinate with you to achieve your goals efficiently while safeguarding wildlife.