During construction there may be a requirement for some types of clearance works (vegetation or built structures) which require the supervision by an ecologist. This may be in accordance with companies’ environmental policies, recommendations given in assessment reports and/or requirements of a species licence.

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Samsara Ecology has undertaken ECoW for a range of projects from large scale rail schemes to single homeowner developments.

An ECoW typically undertakes the following tasks:

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• Gives a toolbox talk to contractors and/or onsite staff

• Carries out a check of the vegetation or structure for wildlife before works (if practical to do so)

• Carries out hand searches of vegetation

• Advises on the best practice approach to take if wildlife is found

• Moves animals out of harm’s way if necessary

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If wildlife is found, then an ECoW will stop works whilst the situation is assessed, and decisions made on the best way to proceed. This may result in works in the area being halted until suitable licences have been obtained or wildlife has moved away from the area.