Wildlife Habitats

  • 23 Jun 2015

What are they?

A wildlife habitat is a generic term covering features such as bird and bat boxes and insect habitats.

Advantages / Disadvantages

Increases biodiversity on the building / site.

Demonstrates to staff and visitors a strong commitment to sustainability.

On-going advice required from an ecologist or other specialist.

Introduction of bird/bat life may also bring issues such as droppings.

Running costs

Ad hoc specialist advice will be required depending on the type of wildlife habitat.

Retrofit / improvement opportunities

Straightforward to retrofit providing there is accessible roof space. Specialist advice is required to determine the best position to site the wildlife habitat.

Applicable buildings

All building types can host wildlife habitats, however, specialist advice should be sought and a survey undertaken.

Floor plate implications

None.

Occupant comfort

No implications

Maintenance implications

Wildlife habitats typically require no maintenance.  All maintenance implications should be detailed in a  biodiversity management plan prepared by an ecologist or  other specialist.

The advice of an ecologist or other specialist will be required if bat and bird boxes need to be moved to avoid disruption to habitat and breeding cycles.

Identification

A wildlife habitat typically comprises a timber box or other  wooden structure housing bats, birds, or insects at roof  level either mounted vertically or horizontally. Habitats vary in size depending on the fauna being accommodated.

Questions to ask

  • Are there any dedicated bird and / or bat boxes, or insect habitats on the building?
  • Is there a biodiversity management plan detailing any specific maintenance requirements?
  • Who is responsible for maintaining any installed wildlife habitat (if required)?

More information

References required