Birnam Oak – Protected Species Survey (Bats)

We completed surveys on the famous Birnam Oak and Sycamore trees near Dunkeld prior to works to safeguard the trees from collapse. The Birnam Oak and the Birnam Sycamore are thought to be the sole surviving relics of Birnam Wood which features in Macbeth, one of Shakespeare's most famous plays.

After a preliminary roost assessment survey and a dawn re-entry survey were completed, we worked with Scottish Natural Heritage and Aboretum Internationale to agree a way forward. Having completed an at height survey to check all the features with bat roost potential with the assistance of Aboreteering Internationale, we were able to secure a licence from Scottish Natural Heritage to allow the tree works to commence the next day.