Herpetological Services
Herp Survey Services
With the discovery of emerging pathogens such as snake fungal disease and chytrid fungus, combined with ongoing habitat loss from development, many reptile and amphibian species have been listed as state-protected, with some receiving federal protection as well. Wherever your project is located, BioSurvey Group’s herpetological team can help navigate these regulatory requirements.
Whether working solely with our in-house specialists or collaborating with local experts, we can efficiently advance your project while ensuring compliance. Our team includes experienced and qualified surveyors for federally protected species such as the Cheat Mountain Salamander, Gopher Tortoise, and Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. We have also completed surveys for numerous state-listed species throughout the United States, including Tiger Salamanders (VA), Timber Rattlesnakes (VA, WV), Mabee’s Salamanders (VA), and Eastern Spadefoot Toads (OH).
Comprehensive Survey Methods
Our herpetological survey and data collection experience spans multiple methods including:
- Presence / probably absence surveys
- Construction site monitoring and clearance
- Long-term monitoring efforts
- Habitat assessments
- Drift fences
- Exclusion fencing
- Cover boards
- Funnel traps
- Hoop traps
- Minnow traps
- Telemetry
- Road cruising
- Manual palpation
- Eye shine surveys
- Elastomer tagging
Extensive Geographic Experience
BioSurvey Group’s team can conduct surveys throughout states east of the Mississippi River. We have successfully completed surveys in AL, GA, IL, IN, KY, MI, MS, NC, OH, TX, VA, and WV. Our team maintains excellent working relationships with federal and state agency personnel, enabling us to work effectively in nearly any state. For states that require a local expert, we collaborate with qualified professionals to keep your project on track and completed within its designated timeline.
Regulatory Compliance
Our team is dedicated to providing efficient and accurate Endangered Species Act compliance, as well as addressing general species inventory requirements. We work closely with regulatory agencies to ensure your project meets all necessary environmental standards.
What We Provide:
Construction Monitoring
Our herpetologists bring extensive experience conducting monitoring efforts during active construction activities. Working directly with crews on the ground, we ensure no animals are harmed during project work. Our services include clearing areas of animals ahead of heavy equipment operations and relocating species to safe locations. Our team has successfully monitored sites for timber rattlesnakes, spotted and Blandings turtles, and Cheat Mountain salamanders. We relocate all taxa out of harm’s way, not just listed species.
Trapping
With over a decade of experience trapping multiple herpetofauna on project sites, our team employs specialized methods tailored to target species. Our trapping techniques include:
- Hoop traps for turtles
- Funnel traps for snakes, lizards, and frogs
- Unbaited minnow traps for larval salamanders
Trapping serves as an effective tool for determining presence or probable absence of cryptic species that may otherwise go undetected.
Long-Term Monitoring
Some projects require ongoing population monitoring efforts after construction completion. Biosurvey Group’s herpetologists can develop comprehensive monitoring plans and conduct the physical monitoring efforts to track population health and project impacts over time.
Habitat Assessments
Every project begins with a thorough habitat assessment. This critical first step informs both clients and regulatory agencies whether suitable habitat is present and whether presence / probable absence surveys are necessary for the project to proceed.
BioSurvey Group
Physical Address
3 East Maple St.
Liberty, IN 47353
(888) 712-0566
Mailing Address
PO Box 593
Morgantown, WV 26507
(304)-810-8099
Questions? We Have Answers!
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