Richard founded HCE after recognizing the need for an ecology consultancy that could both advocate for wildlife and the environment while collaborating pragmatically with clients.

With a degree in Zoology, years of professional wildlife experience in Africa, and a period as a scuba-diving instructor, Richard is a seasoned and passionate naturalist. He has assembled a team of specialist ecologists who share his dedication to the natural world and understand that fostering strong client relationships enhances the ecological success of projects.

Luke is an ecologist with 8 years’ of prior consultancy experience comprising two seasons of ecological field survey work with Aspect Ecology, two years with RSK as a graduate ecologist, two years with Wood Plc as a consultant ecologist and 2 years with RSK Biocensus as a senior ecologist.

During this time, Luke has undertaken a wide variety of field work surveys and written a variety of reports. 

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Luke holds a Natural England licence for great crested newts and hazel dormouse. Luke also has botanical ID skills at FISC Level 4.

Luke has worked on various high-profile projects including those of confidential and controversial natures such as HS2, cable routes and fracking sites.

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Luke has specialist skills in the following areas:-

Conducting ecological surveys and ecological clerk of works services for protected species (e.g. nesting bats, badger, bats, great crested newts, reptiles, water vole, and hazel dormouse);

Phase 1/UKHab habitat survey botany and producing ecological reports to support planning applications.

Nick has been with HCE since its inception, bringing 20 years of experience as a consultant ecologist. With a wealth of experience in the ecology field, Nick's expertise is extensive. As an avid birder, he has participated in bird counts in Zambia and facilitates our bird surveys here in the UK.

Nick has authored several scientific publications on diverse subjects, including the world's rarest species of bat and the unique echidna. When not searching for nesting birds, reptiles, or bats, Nick enjoys cultivating his wild English garden in the heart of Hampshire.

Following an extensive career as an Accountant and Business Consultant in a wide range of industries, Colin joined Richard and his HCE team to help provide solid finance and business administration support to the rapidly growing business.Colin has a keen interest in many areas of the environment, ecology, wildlife and natural history and enjoys the opportunity to work with a business closely involved with each of these fields.