Drimmelen maps protected wildlife to ease home renovations for residents
Residents of Drimmelen can soon renovate or insulate their homes more easily, thanks to a new Species Management Plan. Ecologists are surveying protected animals like bats and sparrows to prevent delays and extra costs for homeowners.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Municipality | Drimmelen |
| Research Partner | Ecoresult B.V. |
| Protected Species | Noctule bat, house sparrow, starling, swiftlets |
| Research Period | March 23 – April 30, 2026 |
| Research Times | Sunset + 3 hours (bats), sunrise + 1 hour until 1:00 PM (birds) |
| Goal | Central exemption for insulation/renovation permits |
| Nature-Friendly Measures | Nest boxes, flight openings in insulation |
The municipality of Drimmelen is responsible for balancing urban development with nature conservation. By creating a Species Management Plan, it ensures compliance with environmental laws while simplifying permit processes for residents.
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Ecologists investigate protected animals in our municipality
In the municipality of Drimmelen, we are collaborating with Ecoresult B.V. on a Species Management Plan (SMP). This will map out where protected animals such as bats, swiftlets, starlings, and house sparrows are found. This information helps us better consider vulnerable species during insulation and renovation work. Starting March 23, the ecologists from Ecoresult B.V. will be surveying our municipality for new research. They can be recognized by their orange vests and binoculars.
The noctule bat, house sparrow, and starling
In early spring, the ecologists are focusing, among other species, on the noctule bat, one of the largest bats in the Netherlands. They do this up to three hours after sunset, as the bats are active and swarm around the maternity colonies. Additionally, they are investigating where house sparrows and starlings nest. They are also identifying the so-called chattering spots: locations where groups of house sparrows gather. For this part of the research, the ecologists will be out in the field from one hour after sunrise until 1:00 PM, traveling by bicycle. The research will continue until the end of April.
Why a Species Management Plan (SMP)?
By accurately mapping where protected animals live in our municipality, we can prevent them from being disturbed during insulation or renovations. With the SMP, we apply for a single central exemption from the Brabant Noord Environmental Service for the built-up area. This usually allows residents to insulate and renovate without additional research or permits. However, nature-friendly insulation is required, meaning we must account for animals by providing them with a safe place and exit, such as nest boxes or 'flight openings' in the insulation.
Photo caption: Researcher from Ecoresult B.V. conducting fieldwork for the species management plan