Bird Boxes and Hedgehog Highways. Incorporating Wildlife With New Builds

As the demand for new homes continues to rise in the UK, it’s essential to consider not just the needs of the homeowners but also the wider environment. The integration of wildlife friendly features into new build designs is becoming increasingly important. These measures contribute to sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and the preservation of habitats for endangered species.

In this article, we’ll explore how developers can incorporate wildlife friendly designs into new builds, from bird and bat boxes to hedgehog highways, and how conservation efforts for endangered flora and fauna should be a priority before construction even begins.

Why is Incorporating Wildlife into New Build Design Important?

Incorporating wildlife friendly features into new builds is essential for several reasons:

1. Conservation of biodiversity - With urban sprawl rapidly encroaching on natural habitats, it’s vital to create spaces where wildlife can thrive alongside human development. By including wildlife friendly designs, developers can help protect vulnerable species and preserve biodiversity.

2. Sustainability - Sustainable development practices go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship. Including green infrastructure and wildlife considerations can improve the ecological footprint of a development, making it more sustainable in the long term.

3. Legislation - As awareness of environmental impacts grows, legislation is tightening around construction projects. Local authorities may require wildlife friendly features as part of planning permissions, especially when the development is close to protected natural areas or habitats of endangered species.

Pre-Development Conservation: Protecting Endangered Flora and Fauna

Before a new build project begins, it’s critical to assess the land for any endangered species and habitats that might be impacted by the development. For example, newts and other amphibians are often found in wetlands and ponds, and their habitats need to be protected. Developers should carry out a pre-construction survey to identify any protected species that may be living on the site. If endangered species are found, developers will need to adhere to legal requirements to ensure their protection.

• Protected species - Species such as badgers, bats, great crested newts, red squirrels and various species of birds and plants are protected under UK law. Developers must take steps to mitigate any potential harm to these species, which may include creating alternative habitats or delaying construction during key breeding seasons.

• Biodiversity management plans - Developers can work with environmental consultants to develop a biodiversity management plan that outlines the steps to protect the environment during the construction process and incorporate long term strategies for maintaining local habitats.

Common Wildlife Friendly Features in New Build Design

Bird Boxes and Nesting Sites

One of the simplest and most effective ways to support local bird populations is by incorporating bird boxes into the design of new builds. These boxes can be placed in eaves, on walls, or in garden spaces. There are various types of bird boxes depending on the species you want to attract. For instance:

• Swift boxes - Swifts are fast flying birds that need tall buildings with access to cavities for nesting. Including swift boxes in the upper parts of buildings or new developments can help provide a safe place for these declining species.

• Robin and starling boxes - These birds prefer smaller, sheltered spaces and can thrive in boxes attached to garden fences or tree trunks.

• Sparrow terraces - Sparrows are communal nesters, and a terrace style bird box offers multiple entry points to accommodate entire colonies.

Integrating these boxes early in the building design helps to provide nesting sites and supports local bird populations.

Bat Boxes

Bats play a vital role in pest control, particularly in the summer months, and are increasingly endangered in the UK. By including bat boxes in new builds, developers can provide essential roosting spaces. Bat boxes should be placed in dark, undisturbed areas, such as the gables of houses or trees within the surrounding landscape. Incorporating these features into new developments not only benefits bat species but also enhances the overall biodiversity of the area.

Hedgehog Highways

Hedgehogs are under threat, with their population declining due to habitat loss, fragmented landscapes, and human activities. One simple way to help hedgehogs is by creating hedgehog highways; small gaps in fences or garden walls that allow hedgehogs to move freely between gardens and other green spaces. This encourages local populations to travel safely and find food, water, and shelter. Many developers are now making hedgehog highways part of their landscaping plans to assist with the conservation of this iconic species.

Incorporating Green Roofs and Walls

Green roofs and walls are fantastic ways to create additional habitats for wildlife, especially in urban areas where space for gardens is limited. These living roofs can support a variety of plants that, in turn, provide food and shelter for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other insects. Additionally, green walls can attract birds, provide insects with food, and even improve the insulation of buildings, making them a sustainable solution to urban development.

Wildflower Meadows and Pollinator Gardens

For new build developments with gardens, incorporating wildflower meadows and pollinator friendly plants helps support species such as bees, butterflies, and other important pollinators. Wildflowers attract insects and create vibrant, natural habitats for small animals. Planting native species is crucial as it encourages a balanced ecosystem that supports local wildlife.

Sustainability and Wildlife: Building for the Future

Incorporating wildlife friendly features into new build homes is a step towards creating more sustainable communities. Not only does it contribute to the health of the environment, but it also benefits homeowners by promoting a stronger connection with nature and improving the quality of life. Green spaces, native plants, and wildlife friendly designs make for more attractive and healthier living environments.

Sustainability in housing development goes beyond just energy efficient homes. Developers, architects, and local authorities should continue to work together to ensure that new builds are designed with wildlife and biodiversity in mind. This proactive approach helps preserve the natural world and its delicate ecosystems for future generations.

Final Thoughts

As the construction industry evolves, the integration of wildlife friendly features into new builds in the UK is becoming increasingly important. Whether it’s installing bird and bat boxes, creating hedgehog highways, or preserving endangered species before development begins, these efforts help to protect local wildlife and promote biodiversity. By focusing on sustainability and habitats, developers can build homes that not only serve the needs of their occupants but also contribute to the wider environment.

As homeowners, it’s vital to support these initiatives and advocate for wildlife friendly designs in the homes we live in. After all, a thriving natural world benefits us all.