Natural England - Species Licensing

Introduction
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Protected Species List
Application and Report Forms
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Useful Contacts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Amphibians and Reptiles
- Badgers
- Bats
- Birds
- Mammals
- General
- Plants

Frequently Asked Questions

Bats

Do I need a licence to survey for bats?

Noctule bat. D. Middleton/FLPA A lot of survey work does not require a licence, for example searching for new roosts, observing and counting bats as they emerge from roosts or erecting bat boxes. However if you wish to enter known roosts or handle bats you must seek training from your local bat group and apply for a licence.

Download bat science and conservation licence application form

I've got bats in my loft and I want to treat the timber, do I need a licence?

A licence is not required, however to avoid committing an offence you should contact your Natural England Regional Team for advice about the best time of year to carry out this kind of work and which chemicals are safe for bats.

Regional Team telephone numbers and addresses

I think I've got bats in my loft, can I stop them getting in?

All bats are protected so we strongly recommend that you contact your Natural England Regional Team before taking any action. Natural England will offer to send a bat warden round to offer help and advice.

	Regional Team telephone numbers and addresses
	Download Focus on bats

Do I need a licence to photograph bats?

If you intend to photograph bats in the roost then you will need a licence. However bats may be photographed outside the roost providing it does not cause them disturbance.

Download bat science and conservation licence application form

I am planning to convert a barn which might have bats. I know that they are protected, what should I do?

Employ a licensed consultant to undertake a survey for bats. The results of this survey should be made available to the local authority to aid them in making a decision on the planning application. A licence from Natural England may be required before you can start work.

Natural England Wildlife Management and Licensing Service

Tel:		0845 6014523 (Bristol office)

	Download guidance note on European protected species
	Download Bat mitigation guidelines