Our surveys

The Balcombe Ecological Society undertakes a wide range of ecological surveys for nothing other than community benefit and data collection. All surveys are led and managed in accordance with CIEEM best practices, as well as best practices relating to protected species. Results and data compiled from surveys are free to access and are routinely sent to Sussex Biodiversity Recording Centre. Should you wish to request a copy of data please contact us. A comprehensive list of surveys and project managers can be found below:

Ornithological (bird) Surveys:

Breeding Bird Surveys: these surveys, also known as BBS, are excellent surveys that ecologists undertake to develop an understand of local breeding birds. They indicate resident and migrant breeders, as well as better our understanding of breeding behaviour. This survey is run annually between March and June.

Winter Bird Surveys (WBS): these surveys are important ecological surveys that focus on resident and winter migratory bird populations. These surveys help us to develop an understanding of which birds are present and where. They also allow us to better our understanding of non-breeding bird distribution and priority habitats. This survey is run annually between October and March.

Bat Surveys:

Bat Transect Surveys: these surveys allow ecologists to determine species presence, commuting routes, and potential roost areas. Surveyors walk predetermined routes using specialist bat detecting equipment. This survey is run between April and October.

Amphibian Surveys:

Toads on Roads: this is a project run by Froglife and aims to assist amphibians cross roads during their migration to and from water. This survey allows ecologists to identify, count, and record commuting amphibians.

All surveys are undertaken by Ethan McLaughlan, our in-house ecologist.

As well as these surveys, the Balcombe Ecological Society also undertakes more informal surveys relating to plants and invertebrates (with an emphasis on butterflies).

If you would like to participate in one of these surveys, have any suggestions or feedback, please consider becoming a volunteer or contact us.