Great crested newt surveys

Great crested newts are protected by law. If there are ponds near your site, the council may ask for a newt survey before it decides your application.

eDNA water test

We take a water sample from each pond and a lab tests it for newt DNA. It's the quickest and cheapest way to find out if newts are there. Samples can only be taken from mid-April to the end of June. A negative result usually means no further survey is needed.

Full pond surveys

If newts are found, or a pond can't be sampled, we survey the ponds over several evening visits between mid-March and June. These surveys are led by a Natural England licence holder.

If newts are present

Work can usually still go ahead. Depending on your site, this is through the council's District Level Licensing scheme, where it's available, or a Natural England licence. We'll explain which is quicker and cheaper for you.

When to book

The survey season is short, so book early. If you need an answer before spring, call us and we'll talk through your options.