Surveys of Bats & spec. Fauna
We conduct many of our environmental investigations with own staff. For more specialiased studies we cooperate since years with several well renamed specialists. If faunistic investigations are peformed by external experts as subcontractors, OECOS GmbH handles the coordination and quality control of the services.
Bats
All bat species are strictly protected according to Article 10 (2) no. 11 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatSchG) and therefore of great importance for planning projects. There are strict bans on trapping and harming bats, which are listed in Article 42 BNatSchG. Hunting or flying and migrating bats are mapped as part of detector-based surveys. Using a special ultrasound detector, the ultrasonic calls of bats are made audible and detectable for the surveyors.
A professional, state-of-the-art recording device is used which allows for species detection in the field as well as archiving of calls for subsequent computer-aided analysis using modern software. The inspections of the study area are made at regular intervals from March to October during twilight and at night, and are combined with visual observations.
Automatic boxed systems are usually set up at selected locations for several nights simultaneously with the field surveys. They combine the bat detector system with an automatic time-traceable sound recording of bat calls. Thus permanent and event-accurate detection of bat activity during the whole night is possible. This allows conclusions about how attractive the examined location is for bats.
To obtain information about the roosting sites, all structures that appear to be suitable, such as tree holes and columns, caves, crevices, etc., are mapped and checked for sleeping bats during an inspection conducted at daytime. These potential roosting sites are regularly checked for flying bats during the detector based survey at twilight. The evaluation of the bat research is differentiated by feeding habitats, nurseries, migrating behaviour, summer and winter roosts as well as flight paths. The assessment of the stock of bats detected is based on range of species, rarity, hazard according to the Red List, legal protection status, frequency and observed seasonal space and roost use. The exact scope of the investigation depends on the specific conditions and is usually determined in advance in coordination with the conservation authority.
Amphibians, Reptiles, Fishes, Insects & others
In many cases the evaluation of environmental impacts needs the investigation of specific species like amphibians, retiles, fishes and insects. We conduct such investigation with own staff or associated species specialists in dialogue with the clients and the natural conservation authorities. We are always available as advisors regarding issues of species protection.