Officially spring in the UK starts in late March however, with the effects of climate change it is occurring earlier. With this in mind, please get ready for nature as it awakens from hibernation or dormancy, to ensure that our construction programmes are not delayed.
Although not an exhaustive list, these protected and invasive species reappear in spring.
Protected species:
- Nesting Birds
- Dormice
- Reptiles
Invasive species that start to grow again and we must prevent the spread on our work sites:
- Japanese Knotweed
- Giant Hogweed
- Himalayan Balsam
When planning your works during this period, please take the following points into consideration:
- Make sure that vegetation clearance is complete before birds begin to nest.
- Ensure that the window for ecological surveys is not missed. Some species can only be surveyed at particular times of year such as in the spring and autumn.
- Please deliver Toolbox Talks on protected and invasive species that reappear in the spring, so we can quickly identify them and avoid further risk.
To help projects plan and carry out environmental surveys we have created an Ecological Calendar showing the key times of the year surveys should be carried out for commonly found species.
Click the image below to download a copy and display on your site. If you would like any support contact Chris Grimes, Head of Environment.
We have many environment and sustainable Toolbox Talks available, please click the images below to download.
If you would like any different topics please contact Chris Grimes.
