Purpose
Traditional biodiversity monitoring relies on visual surveys, seasonal fieldwork and human observation, which can struggle to capture the full picture of wildlife presence and behaviour. We employed bioacoustic monitoring – using remote devices to record soundscapes and analyse wildlife activity through species specific calls – to improve our understanding of biodiversity at Bromstead Farm.
Action
A 5-year monitoring plan was developed to record a comprehensive baseline in 2025/26, measuring bird species across two of their most active breeding and migration seasons, as well as a singular month for bat species. A mid-point review will take place is 2027/28, and final review will be recorded in 2029/30. Bioacoustic devices were strategically installed at Bromstead Farm across a variety of habitats, including hedgerows, woodland edges, watercourse margins and open grasslands. These devices continuously record natural soundscapes across both day and night, detecting birds and bats that may be easily missed through traditional survey techniques. The recordings are processed using advanced analytical software to create a highly detailed, time stamped dataset that reveals patterns in species presence and habitat use throughout the year. The technology enables monitoring during dawn chorus, twilight, night time bat flight periods and throughout changing seasons – windows of animal activity that human observers cannot consistently cover.
Impact
The introduction of bioacoustic monitoring has provided a richness of insight into biodiversity at Bromstead Farm that would not have been possible through visual surveys alone. Species that are highly sensitive, nocturnal or cryptic can now be tracked in detail. The monitoring aims to provide long term evidence on the diversity and abundance of species, enabling ABP to benchmark ecological health and track changes. This evidence-based approach will ensure resources are directed towards targeted, effective habitat management plans that deliver the greatest biodiversity value. The recordings also offer scientifically robust evidence that can be shared with stakeholders, customers and conservation partners – and will shape our future land stewardship commitments. By literally listening to the landscape, Bromstead Farm is gaining new insights into how nature responds to land management, where wildlife thrives and what interventions can further enhance the environment.