Our Ecology Specialist Co-Authors Bat Conservation Trust Guidelines

We are delighted to announce that Chris Damant, Technical Director within our Ecology team has co-authored the first edition of the Bat Conservation Trust’s Bat Emergence Surveys with Night Vision Aids (BCT NVA) industry guidelines.

As ecological survey methods continue to evolve, the need for clear, evidence-based guidance has never been greater.
Developed in response to the rapid advancement of night-vision technology, the guidelines provide a robust framework for ecologists conducting bat emergence surveys. They set out clear principles for selecting appropriate equipment, designing proportionate surveys, managing data, and applying professional judgement. Crucially, the guidance reinforces that technology enhances, rather than replaces, strong bat survey fieldcraft and ecological expertise.

Pell Frischmann’s contribution draws on decades of applied ecological experience across complex infrastructure projects. The publication includes case studies from recent Pell Frischmann projects delivered by Josh Sowden, Principal Ecologist, and Matt Davis, Ecologist. The case studies demonstrate how night vision aids can be used effectively across a range of site constraints while maintaining survey integrity and consistency.