Sites of ecological interest may require monitoring either, of a particular species or habitat, to conserve and preserve the specific interest.  Ecological monitoring can provide valuable information on how a community or population is progressing. 

The information gained by monitoring communities and populations can help assess any adverse impacts, due to changes in current management techniques, land uses changes or habitat alterations, which can then be mitigated.

Detailed Great Crested Newt Population Monitoring

This population of great crested newts were translocated to a new site, the receptor site was created and managed specifically for amphibian species.  Monitoring was undertaken the follwoing year, to assess surival rates and check if further mitigation works were required.

Amphibians were captured migrating to their breeding ponds and their belly patterns were recorded.  As shown in the photographs above, belly patterns of great crested newts are individual, just like human finger prints.  Over 125 belly patterns were recorded, so that each newt could be recognised during following monitoring surveys.  Monitoring works are ongoing.