How to conduct an ecological on-site survey

5 expert tips Real Estate and ESG leaders need to know

Biodiversity is fast becoming a key consideration in real estate development and ESG strategies. Whether you’re working toward a BREEAM certification, complying with biodiversity net gain (BNG) regulations, or enhancing your sustainability credentials, conducting a thorough ecological survey is a critical first step.
But how do you ensure your on-site assessment produces meaningful, actionable insights?
Here are five essential tips from BeeOdiversity’s field expert Laetitia Boels to help guide ecological site surveys that lead to tangible impact:

Tip 1

Do your homework before heading out

Preparation is everything. Before setting foot on site, take time to review any existing ecological data or previous observations from the surrounding area. There may be nearby sensitive zones or habitats that support rare or protected species, important clues for what to watch out for during your visit.
The number of site visits needed and their timing may depend on the specific target species and their periods of activity.

Tip 2

Be flexible with your schedule

Nature doesn’t always follow your own schedule. Cold snaps, strong winds, or heavy rain can drastically reduce animal activity and make plant identification harder. Even if you’ve planned a visit, reschedule if conditions aren’t right. It’s better to postpone than to miss valuable observations.
This flexibility will ensure your observations truly reflect the site’s ecological potential.

Tip 3

Bring the right gear

Invest in your equipment. Fast-moving insects or shy birds won’t wait around. A good macro lens can help you capture detailed photos for later identification down to the species level. And for bird monitoring, a quality pair of binoculars is an absolute must.
Documenting species on site with high-quality photos not only supports identification but also strengthens your final reporting.

Tip 4

Be systematic in your observations

A rigorous approach pays off. As you walk the site, record everything you see, and do it methodically. Note the exact locations of invasive plant species, rare orchids, or nesting sites of protected birds.
A structured survey enables precise mapping and is invaluable for developing a robust biodiversity action plan. Think like a cartographer: every data point counts!

Tip 5

Be rigorous in your data recording

The real value of an ecological survey lies in how clearly it communicates your findings. Your field notes serve as the basis for accurate mapping and clear reporting. A well-documented report should give the reader the impression they’ve seen the site with their own eyes.
This level of detail is essential to support your recommendations, enable better decision-making, and guide effective actions aimed at improving biodiversity on the site.

Why this matters for Real Estate and Sustainability leaders

With increasing pressure from regulators, investors, and occupants to demonstrate nature-positive action, ecological surveys are no longer optional, they’re strategic. A well-executed survey supports:

Faster permitting and reduced project risks
Higher sustainability ratings (e.g., BREEAM, LEED)
Smarter site design that integrates biodiversity from day one
Concrete ESG proof points for reporting and stakeholder engagement

At BeeOdiversity, we support real estate and infrastructure actors with tailored biodiversity assessments, from initial surveys to action planning and long-term monitoring.