Publications

Recent research shows that Europe’s four large carnivore species – wolves, brown bear, lynxes and wolverines – can co-exist with humans.

Ecosulis attended the 2015 Oxford University Biosymposium which focused on the functions and values of biodiversity. The symposium presented several viewpoints on this topic, from biologists to chemists and economists, to deliver a holistic viewpoint of the role of biodiversity. In addition, lively debates followed on how to use information and viewpoints to conserve and improve biodiversity. The key message that I have taken from the symposium is that we have a lot of viewpoints and data from a range of projects and that still too many disciplines are operating in silos. However, there is now an urgency to establish a way to implement these ideals to make a difference to our biodiversity, because we cannot live without nature and therefore it is right to value it. 

There are a few ways of surveying for dormouse which include nest searches, hair tube surveys, live traps and dormouse nest boxes.

Natural England is looking to planning a new development bat licence. The Bat Low Impact Licence is designed to simplify the licensing of certain bat projects. The licence would streamline licence applications for schemes that have a low impact on bat roosts. Savings to developers during the initial trial are estimated to be over £180,000 and 444 weeks saved in possible delays to development.

Ecosulis attended the Bristol University Internship Career’s Fair on 30 October 2014. The aim of the fair is to assist environmental and science students with their chosen career, and to offer placements to give potential ecologists relevant work experience and also to strengthen our collaborations with the University. 

Alan Feest joined the second plenary session of the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, which has the aim of assessing the state of the planet's biodiversity, its ecosystems and the essential services they provide to society.

With news of further reintroduction sites around the country, is it possible that the Large Blue will once again be found in the “hills near Bath”? 

Everyone knows that fresh air is good for you, and escaping to wide open green spaces or the coast has health benefits. A recent study by the Institute of Health Equality highlights the growing evidence that green spaces benefit our health and wellbeing.

Natural England have created a new tool that measures Impact Risk Zones for Sites of Special Scientific Interest that will benefit developers when undertaking impact assessments for proposed construction works. 

Cain Blythe at Ecosulis recently visited the Tarcu Mountains, Romania, to find out about rewilding habitats, in search of the Wisent (European Bison).

Priory Farm, a successful example of lesser horseshoe bat mitigation. 

Himalayan balsam may soon meet its match as Defra search for a natural control, in the form of an Indian fungus.