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Invertebrates (animals without a backbone) are a numerous and diverse group of organisms, inhabiting both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Invertebrates are integral to ecosystem function, pollinating plants and providing food for a wide range of birds and mammals. Invertebrates are often under-recorded due to the difficulties associated with accurate identification and the relative lack of specialist surveyors, when compared to other species groups.
Invertebrates are often used as indicators of habitat quality and many species are legally protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and by the Habitat Regulations 1994 (e.g. white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes), Large Blue butterfly (Maculinea arion) and stag beetle (Lucanus cervus)) or listed as being Priority species, or species of Conservation Concern by the UK BAP. More information regarding invertebrates can be found at Buglife - The Invertebrates Conservation Trust.
GreenLink Ecology Ltd is able to undertake surveys for invertebrates and implement mitigation schemes. If you think invertebrates may be a constraint to your project, or have been asked to commission a invertebrate survey by the Local Planning Authority, contact us.
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