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Ecology & OrnithologyDETAILED ECOLOGY AND BIRD SURVEYS HAVE BEEN UNDERTAKEN. THE PURPOSE OF THE SURVEYS IS TO ASSESS THOROUGHLY THE WILDLIFE PRESENT ON, AROUND AND OVER THE PROPOSED WIND FARM SITE. IT IS IMPORTANT TO ENSURE THAT THE WIND FARM DOES NOT HAVE ANY DETRIMENTAL IMPACTS ON THE AREA’S IMPORTANT WILDLIFE.Detailed ecological and ornithological surveys began at the site in October 2006. As well as extensive fieldwork, these surveys included consultation with local and national conservation groups (such as Scottish Natural Heritage, RSPB and the Scottish Wildlife Trust) and collation of existing information about the wildlife of the area. The dominant habitats are improved grassland, dense continuous scrub and areas of ancient woodland (of semi-natural origin and long established woodland (of plantation origin). The ornithological surveys have included extensive Vantage Point surveys of geese and raptors while breeding bird surveys have also been undertaken. Seabird surveys along the coast from Nigg northwards to the site have also taken place. Breeding birds on the site include buzzard, sparrowhawk and numerous farmland species such as skylark, yellowhammer and meadowpippet, coal tits, great tits, reed bunting and linnet. A detailed analysis of the potential impact on the ornithological interest, focusing in particular on the potential impact on the integrity of Nigg and Udale Bay SPA as well as the Rosemarkie to Shandwick Coast SSSI, is presented in the Environmental Statement. Specialist surveys have been carried out and are still ongoing for bats, otters and water vole.. No evidence for the presence of pine martin, water vole, badgers or red squirrels was found. Avoiding adverse impacts on the area’s wildlife is of prime importance and the findings of the ecological surveys are being incorporated into the site design process in order to reduce the possibility of any potentially negative results resulting from the development. A construction management plan will ensure that construction activities take full account of wildlife. A full ecological and ornithological assessment of the proposal is presented in the Environmental Statement. |
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atmos consulting |
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