Newt fencing

– Background:
– Newt fencing is used to control the movement of great crested newts, other amphibians, or reptiles.
– Also known as drift fencing or temporary amphibian fencing (TAF).
– Consists of a low plastic sheeting fence buried into the ground with lightweight wooden or plastic posts.
– Used to keep animals out of working areas, safe habitats, intercept migration routes, or control movement for translocation.
– Often used in building projects to minimize harm to protected species.

– Legislation:
– Great crested newts are strictly protected fauna species under UK legislation.
– Listed under Appendix II of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats.
– Protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act and Conservation (Natural Habitat) regulations 1994.
– Offense to disturb, injure, or kill great crested newts or their habitat.
– Different protection regulations apply to other newt species like smooth newts.

– Habitat:
– Great crested newts need standing fresh water for breeding but spend most time on dry land.
– Prefer semi-natural habitats like rough grassland, hedgerows, and scrub woodland.
– Breeding season is from February to April.
– Spend time within 200-500 meters from breeding pond.
– Conflict with humans due to terrestrial and aquatic habitat usage.

– Planning:
– Environmental impact assessments for developments should include ecological surveys.
– Identification of potential habitat loss and impact on local newt population is essential.
– Developers may need a license from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
– Measures to protect the local population and mitigate habitat loss must be outlined in the license application.
– Necessary to ensure newts are not threatened by development activities.

– Fencing and trapping:
– Newt fencing is essential to prevent harm to individual newts during development.
– Erecting newt fencing or capturing animals requires a license.
– Fence construction involves plastic membrane partially buried with timber stakes for support.
– Different fence types based on lifespan: temporary, semi-permanent, permanent.
– Trapping involves buried buckets (pitfall traps) placed alongside the fence.