Translocations

Translocations are the transportation of entire populations of plants or animals from the threatened area to a suitable new habitat. This is a controversial practice and is used when there is no alternative solution. It is a highly specialised, time consuming and expensive method of mitigation and where possible is used in conjunction with other forms of mitigation. Operations of this kind require extensive planning and in many circumstances need several years to complete. Furthermore, when particular species are involved licenses are required and the operation must be scrutinised by the statutory body, English Nature. This is the case when Great Crested Newts are translocated.

This is often used when protected reptiles and amphibians are present and is a commonly used form of mitigation preventing contravention of the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Slow worms caught in a translocation operation.