Water Vole Ecology and Surveys

This course will be delivered as two separate sessions. Session 1 will cover the theory and is delivered online via Microsoft Teams from 9.30am to 1pm on 23rd April 2026. Session 2 is in-person field visits which will take place on 27th April 2026, as two groups of up to 7 delegates plus the trainer for approximately 2 hours (group 1 - 10am-12pm and group 2 - 12:30pm-2:30pm.)

For the field visits, delegates will need to have their own means of transport to get to field sites in Fairford, Gloucestershire. Sites are not accessible by public transport. There is likely to be a short car journey (approximately 10 minutes) between field sites, and a short walk (approximately 5 minutes) from car parks to field sites. Car registration numbers will need to be provided in advance.

This is an introductory course on water voles. It will cover the background ecology of, and appropriate survey techniques for, water voles in the context of development projects.

The course will have a particular focus on determining the most appropriate approach to surveying for water voles in development scenarios, following the guidance set out in the Water Vole Mitigation Handbook. It will cover identification and recording of field signs, assessing habitat suitability, gathering and using desk study and other contextual information.

This course is aimed at beginners and those with some previous experience. Attendance on this course is strongly recommended as preparation for our two intermediate - advanced level courses on Water Vole Mitigation and Water Vole Live Trapping, Care and Restoration.

Consultants, LPA Ecologists, conservation officers in SNCOs or NGOs.

No prior knowledge of Water Vole Ecology and Surveys is required.

• Knowledge of water vole ecology.
• Understanding of different types of water vole surveys and the relevant approach to each.
• Ability to find and identify field signs, particularly latrines, feeding remains and burrows.
• Ability to distinguish water vole field signs from those of other species.
• Ability to assess habitat suitability for water voles.