Phase I Habitat Survey: A Crucial Tool in Ecological Assessment
Ecologists widely use Phase I Habitat Surveys to categorise Irish habitats. This standard method gives a clear overview of habitat types in an area, laying the groundwork for more detailed ecological studies and conservation work.
Phase I Habitat Survey is a fundamental component of ecological surveys, playing a vital role in categorising Irish habitats. How do we classify habitats? Habitats are identified and classified according to Fossitt (2000) and Smith et al. (2011).
Special Areas of Conservation (SACs):
Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) are sites designated under the EU Habitats Directive. These areas often contain habitats listed on Annex I of the Habitats Directive, which outlines habitats of European importance.
Annex I Habitats:
Annex I of the Habitats Directive lists 233 European natural habitat types, including:
- 71 priority habitat types that are in danger of disappearance
- Habitats whose natural range primarily falls within the territory of the European Union
These priority habitats receive special attention in conservation efforts and environmental impact assessments.
Importance of Habitat Surveys:
Habitat surveys are crucial for several reasons:
Habitat surveys play a crucial role for several reasons:
- Firstly, they help us assess biodiversity by providing a baseline understanding of an area’s ecological diversity.
- Secondly, they guide conservation planning by helping us identify and prioritise important habitats.
- Moreover, they’re often required for development projects to evaluate potential ecological impacts.
- Lastly, regular surveys allow us to track changes in habitat composition over time.
If your project requires a Habitat Survey, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team is ready to provide expert ecological assessment services tailored to your specific needs.
An example of a Habitat Map taken from Smith et al. (2011) is shown below.
