As well as testing the SM2 in the field, Baker Consultants has this week returned from a lab testing session with Dr Fiona Mathews, lecturer in mammalian biology at Exeter University. more

Paul writes: Well, the kit works, is field ready in our opinion, just more to do on the comparative side to make sure the species recording is reliable. Just realised we never told you what it was, no reason, except we were not sure of it's capabilities. more

Is it possible that there could be a user friendly, waterproof, effective and affordable remote monitoring device? We're hoping so. more

Assessing trees for bat roosts can require considerable effort because the features that bats use can often be small, high in the canopy of the tree and obscured by foliage. That’s great for predator avoidance, but presents ecologists with difficulties when surveying. There are several methods to survey trees and the level of survey is somewhat dependent on the value of the habitat for bats and the extent of the impacts. more

Does anyone out there have a fail-safe way of filling in pre-qualification forms? Of course not! We’re even sending Diana on a course to learn about them. I’d really like to get a group of Local Authority procurement people in a room to justify why they are all different and admit which bits are completely arbitrary. more