Using eDNA testing to check for great crested newts

If you are applying for a development licence you can use eDNA testing to check if great crested newts are present in ponds or other waterbodies.

When to use eDNA testing

Testing should take place between 15 April and 30 June. This is because poor water quality or newt behaviour can affect accuracy.

If you test outside this window we will not accept negative results and you will need to carry out extra surveys, unless the project is low risk. We will accept positive results from outside this period. These confirm the presence of great crested newts and you do not need any further surveys.

When to use more survey methods

If your eDNA result is negative you will need to carry out extra surveys any if the following apply:

• the pond is within 500 metres of known newt habitats
• the area has lots of ponds
• you need population data (not presence or absence)

What to include in your eDNA report

Your report must include:

• proof you followed official sampling instructions (like what?)
• confirmation that a trained great crested newt surveyor collected the samples (how?)
• evidence that the testing lab is accredited
• details of all the ponds sampled
• dates the samples were taken
• details of the methods used
• environment statements and management plans
• copies of lab results
• relevant survey figures and all results (??)

You must keep your results for at least 12 months after your licence return date.

Licence monitoring

You can use eDNA for post-development monitoring between 15 April and 30 June. This only tells you if great crested newts are present or not. Use traditional surveys for more detailed monitoring.

Poor water quality and the fact that newts don't always breed each year can affect your results. If you get an unclear (indeterminate) result you should not treat it as negative.