Hibernacula Creation
FiveRivers is the leading environmental specialist in the UK offering hibernacula creation
At FiveRivers, we believe nature is the solution, and deliver innovative nature-based solutions. Hibernacula creation as a service refers to the creation of habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Development schemes can limit or destroy habitats in which these species can live, leading to a requirement for mitigation or creation of similar or new bespoke habitat types. When a habitat is likely to be affected or removed, we use natural materials such as logs and locally sourced aggregates to recreate suitable habitat for amphibian and reptile species, which would have otherwise been displaced as part of the scheme.
While terrestrial modifications may be undertaken for a multitude of reasons (including for private residence works), at FiveRivers we’re pleased to have worked on several notable transport, housing development and river habitat improvement sites to create hibernacula for mitigation purposes, examples of which you can find in our case studies.
We can advise on, design and construct an array of hibernacula for reptiles, amphibians and other species likely to make use of these structures. Hibernacula are also great features to install on a wide range of habitat improvement projects, especially when materials already present on site can be utilised when undertaking tree works for riparian river corridor habitats.
FiveRivers provides professional hibernacula construction for mitigation or habitat enhancement across the UK. We create secure habitats that protect wildlife, enhance biodiversity, and deliver long-term ecological value.
The Problems
Protected Species
FiveRivers specialises in terrestrial habitat creation, using site-won materials (logs, turf, soil) to build hibernacula as sustainable, cost-effective, nature-based solutions. Our professional hibernacula creation services include design and construction of hibernacula and wildlife shelters that provide safe refuges for reptiles, amphibians and other species likely to make use of these structures. Our hibernacula constructions are built to last, blending seamlessly into the landscape while providing measurable biodiversity benefits that stand the test of time.
When planning a project, the following considerations must be made:
- Protected species cannot be moved from a development site until a suitable receptor site or compensatory habitat has been identified.
- There is a requirement in the planning process to avoid ecological harm resulting from the scheme. Where this is not possible, the effects must be mitigated through the creation of offsite bespoke mitigation sites. Compensation habitat is created as a last resort.
- Existing complex habitats provide important refuge for amphibians and reptiles. In the result of these habitats being impacted by development, the creation of hibernacula is an effective compensatory measure within the site boundary.
- The creation of hibernacula often forms part of planning conditions, alongside the creation of ponds and other terrestrial habitat features.
The Solutions
Environmental Protection
Hibernacula creation services involve designing and constructing specialised underground shelters for reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates to hibernate, primarily used as ecological mitigation for development projects. Our team of professionals uses logs, stones, and soil to create frost-free, dry, and secure habitats, often meeting legal requirements for biodiversity enhancement.
Here at FiveRivers, environmental protection is in our nature. Our expertise over the past three decades has seen us contribute to a wide variety project across the length and breadth of the UK, with clients ranging from large civils companies to Rivers Trusts and private clients.
Our team includes specialists in terrestrial habitat creation, including hibernacula creation. We use site-won materials, wherever possible, of using nature-based solutions whilst also ensuring cost efficiencies for our clients without reducing resulting habitat quality. For example, utilising logs from tree clearance and site won turf and soils from excavations will reduce cost to remove ‘waste’ materials and later import similar materials for the creation of hibernacula. It is always beneficial to discuss the creation of ecological mitigation features early on through Early Contractor Involvement to identify where efficiencies as part of mitigation can be made.
Hibernacula constructions provide multiple ecological benefits – protect species during critical life stages such as hibernation and breeding, enhance biodiversity by creating diverse habitat niches, reduce pressure on natural habitats impacted by development. These purpose-built shelters also improve resilience of ecosystems against climate and environmental change, whilst supporting Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements and wider conservation strategies.
Contact us
Talk to an expert in Hibernacula Creation
Luke Roberts
Construction Manager
Get in touch by either phone or email to speak with Luke and discuss your needs. Alternatively click the button below to complete our contact form.
Telephone: 01722 783 041
Email: sales@five-rivers.com
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