It isn’t too late to check your site for Great Crested Newts.
In 2014, we brought you news of a simpler, more cost-effective survey technique to evaluate the presence/absence of Great Crested Newts. eDNA testing has since been accepted by Natural England as a, novel, legitimate survey method for assessing GCN presence, and is a method being used effectively at JFA Environmental Planning. The advantage of eDNA is if the test is negative for GCN no further surveys are required and considerable time and cost savings are likely. If GCN are found to be present, then traditional surveys are still required to assess the population size, as eDNA can only provide limited information regarding newt presence. eDNA also effectively extends the survey season to the end of June. Aquatic surveys should be completed by mid June, with two – three surveys between mid April and mid May. Should the need for a survey become apparent at the end of May eDNA provides an opportunity to identify whether great crested newts are absent without waiting until the following survey season. For a quick guide to eDNA surveys, click here.
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