Terrestrial Ecology

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Wildlife Surveys & Assessments

BioSurvey Group biologists have extensive experience in avian, small mammal, herpetofauna, and pollinator presence/absence surveys in addition to ecological assessments, biological inventories and long-term monitoring. Our biologists have experience working in a variety of environments and ecosystems to find target species and to coordinate with clients, landowners, and state and federal agencies for Endangered Species Act compliance.

Diverse Survey Capabilities

  • Avian mist-net surveys
  • Raptor nest surveys
  • Small mammal trapping and relocation
  • Herpetofauna surveys and monitoring
  • Habitat assessments
  • Construction monitoring

Regulatory Expertise

Our team maintains current knowledge of state and federal regulations affecting terrestrial wildlife. We effectively coordinate with:

  • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  • State Natural Heritage Programs
  • Local conservation agencies
  • Private landowners and stakeholders

What We Provide:

Small Mammal Trapping

From drift fences and pit-fall traps to Sherman trap arrays, our biologists have the experience trapping a variety of small mammals in diverse habitat types. Our biologists are experts in trap site selection, identification, and safe handling of small mammal species to ensure all biometric data is collected accurately and animals are released with minimal stress.

Comprehensive Trapping Methodologies

  • Sherman Live Traps – Strategic placement for targeted small mammal capture
  • Drift Fence Systems – Effective for comprehensive community sampling
  • Pit-Fall Trap Arrays – Specialized installation for subterranean and surface-active species
  • Tomahawk Traps – For larger small mammal species assessment

Professional Field Techniques

  • Expert habitat assessment for optimal trap placement
  • Weather-appropriate trap checking schedules
  • Thermal protection for captured animals
  • Gentle handling procedures to minimize stress

Data Collection Excellence

  • Species identification and verification
  • Standard morphometric measurements
  • Population density estimates
  • Habitat association analysis
  • Geographic distribution mapping

Regulatory Compliance

All trapping is conducted under appropriate state and federal permits, with strict adherence to established animal care protocols and ethical guidelines.

Raptor Nest Surveys

BioSurvey Group provides specialized raptor nest surveys conducted by our experienced avian biologists. Our thorough assessment protocols help identify and protect these crucial apex predators while supporting responsible project development.

Our Raptor Survey Expertise

Comprehensive Stick-Nest Surveys Our team conducts detailed surveys to locate and identify raptor nests within and surrounding project areas. We specialize in detecting both active and inactive nest structures for various species including hawks, eagles, falcons, and owls.

Professional Point Count Surveys Using standardized methodology, our avian biologists perform point count surveys to document raptor presence, behavior, and habitat use throughout your project area during critical periods.

Survey Benefits for Your Project

  • Regulatory Compliance: Meet federal, state and local requirements for raptor protection including the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
  • Impact Assessment: Identify potential conflicts between development activities and raptor nesting sites
  • Mitigation Planning: Develop effective strategies to minimize disturbance to nesting raptors
  • Seasonal Timing: Schedule surveys during appropriate seasons to maximize detection and minimize project delays
Herpetofauna Habitat Assessment

We specialize in identifying habitat features crucial for specific reptile and amphibian species, including threatened and endangered populations that may require special consideration during project planning.

Our Habitat Assessment Approach

Our field biologists apply their extensive knowledge to recognize and document key habitat components:

  • Breeding sites and reproductive requirements
  • Basking locations and thermal environments
  • Hibernacula and overwintering habitat
  • Foraging areas and prey availability
  • Movement corridors and connectivity features

Benefits of Expert Habitat Assessment

  • Early Identification: Recognize potential habitat concerns early in your project timeline
  • Regulatory Navigation: Address compliance requirements for protected herpetofauna species
  • Strategic Planning: Develop effective avoidance and mitigation strategies
  • Conservation Value: Support biodiversity preservation while meeting development goals
Pollinator Habitat Assessments

BioSurvey Group provides specialized habitat assessments focused on endangered pollinators, including the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee and Monarch Butterfly. Our comprehensive evaluation methods help identify, document, and protect critical habitat for these ecologically essential species.

Floral Resource Surveys

  • Identification of native flowering species and their abundance
  • Seasonal bloom assessment and flowering phenology
  • Nectar and pollen resource availability mapping
  • Invasive plant detection and management recommendations

Habitat Feature Documentation

  • Overwintering habitat quality assessment
  • Larval host plant surveys for monarchs
  • Landscape connectivity analysis

Non-Invasive Survey Methods

High-Quality Photographic Documentation

  • Representative habitat imagery for baseline documentation
  • Macro photography for species identification
  • Photo-point monitoring for habitat changes over time
  • Digital cataloging of floral resources

Careful Pollinator Observation

  • Non-lethal netting with immediate release
  • Visual surveys during peak activity periods
  • Behavior and habitat use documentation
  • Species identification without specimen collection

Benefits for Your Project

  • Regulatory Compliance: Meet federal and state requirements for endangered species protection
  • Informed Planning: Identify high-value pollinator habitat early in project development
  • Conservation Opportunities: Discover enhancement potential for existing habitats
Small Mammal Relocation

We specialize in the professional relocation of small mammals from development sites to suitable alternative habitats. Our expert team combines ecological knowledge with humane capture techniques to ensure the welfare of wildlife throughout the relocation process.

Our Small Mammal Relocation Process

  • Species Identification & Assessment: Our trained biologists accurately identify all small mammal species present on your site, evaluating their ecological needs and habitat requirements.
  • Humane Capture Techniques: We employ specialized, non-harmful trapping methods designed for each species’ size and behavior patterns.
  • Niche-Based Habitat Matching: Unlike basic removal services, we carefully assess and select release locations that match each species’ specific ecological niche requirements.
  • Careful Transport & Release: Animals are transported with minimal stress and released in a manner that promotes successful establishment in their new environment.

Why Choose BioSurvey Group?

  • Ecological Expertise: Our team includes specialists with extensive knowledge of small mammal biology and habitat requirements
  • Regulatory Compliance: All relocations follow federal, state, and local wildlife regulations
  • Preservation Focus: We balance development needs with conservation priorities
  • Comprehensive Documentation: Detailed reporting for project stakeholders and regulatory agencies
Avian Mist-Netting Surveys

BioSurvey Group offers specialized avian mist-netting surveys conducted by experienced ornithologists. Our methodical approach to bird capture, handling, and data collection provides valuable insights for conservation, research, and environmental impact assessments.

Strategic Net Placement Our biologists carefully select optimal mist net locations based on:

  • Flight corridors and movement patterns
  • Habitat characteristics and vegetation structure
  • Weather and environmental conditions
  • Species-specific behavior and activity periods

Safe Bird Handling & Processing We prioritize bird welfare throughout the capture process:

  • Rapid extraction techniques to minimize stress
  • Proper handling practices for different species
  • Efficient processing to reduce holding time
  • Gentle release procedures to ensure safe return to habitat

Comprehensive Data Collection Our team collects detailed information during each capture:

  • Species identification and aging/sexing
  • Morphometric measurements and condition assessment
  • Band application when appropriate
  • Photographic documentation
  • Habitat association data

Applications for Your Project

  • Baseline Inventories: Document diversity and abundance
  • Environmental Impact Assessment: Gather data on potentially affected species
  • Population Monitoring: Track changes in bird communities 
  • Migration Studies: Assess seasonal movement patterns
  • Habitat Use Analysis: Determine species-habitat relationships

Herpetofauna Construction Monitoring

With trained herpetologists, we conduct thorough site sweeps and maintain vigilant oversight during construction activities that may impact reptile and amphibian habitats:

  • Ground-disturbing activities and vegetation removal
  • Trenching and excavation operations
  • Equipment staging and material laydown
  • Work near burrows, crevices, and other potential refugia

Specialized Search Techniques
We employ proven methods to detect hidden or cryptic species that might otherwise be overlooked:

  • Careful inspection of burrows and soil features
  • Detection of concealed individuals in vegetation or debris
  • Recognition of subtle movement patterns and signs
  • Early morning and seasonal timing adjustments

Comprehensive Protection Protocols

Rapid Response & Safe Handling
When threatened or endangered herpetofauna are encountered:

  • Immediate work stoppage in the immediate area
  • Professional capture and safe relocation by permitted biologists
  • Thorough documentation of all encounters
  • Clear communication with construction teams and project managers

Preventative Measures
We help implement effective protective strategies:

  • Exclusion fencing installation and maintenance
  • Creation of temporary refugia
  • Worker education and awareness training
  • Development of species-specific encounter protocols

Contact Us

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

Email Us

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