Water Voles & The Law

The national water vole population has declined significantly over the last century, and it is now protected in the UK under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981). It is illegal to kill, injure or capture a water vole, or intentionally or recklessly disturb, obstruct, damage, or destroy a burrow.

Water Voles’ Habitats

Water voles inhabit burrows along the banks of watercourses. They are mainly found in slow-flowing rivers and streams. They live in colonies spread along watercourses and prefer sites with a wide swathe of riparian habitat.

Phlorum staff can provide advice for developments concerned about impacting water voles. Our team of ecology consultants carry out phase 1 and phase 2 water vole surveys and devise appropriate mitigation strategies, including habitat creation and management, where required.

Water Vole Survey Season

Water vole surveys may be conducted between March and September. Although this species is active all year round, it is markedly less active during the winter.

Contact our team of ecology consultants to learn more about our ecology surveys and for your free, no-obligation water vole survey consultation.