Dr Nick Underhill-Day

With 15 years of experience in ecology and a background in academic research, Nick brings a broad skill set to his role at Swift Ecology. He provides expert advice across a wide range of projects, drawing on deep knowledge of applied ecology and conservation science.

Nick has led or supported numerous ecological projects—from development assessments to habitat restoration—working with clients including statutory bodies, NGOs, charities, landowners, and planning professionals.

He is highly skilled in habitat and protected species surveys, ecological evaluation, and project management. Nick holds class licences for bats, great crested newt, and barn owl, is a Registered user of Natural England’s Badger Class Licence, and is qualified in tree climbing and aerial rescue. He has acted as the named ecologist or accredited agent on over 40 successful protected species licence applications.

A lifelong naturalist, Nick enjoys exploring local wildlife, walking and cycling. He conducts annual breeding bird surveys for the Malvern Hills Trust and helps monitor important populations of barbastelle and lesser horseshoe bat. He has wide-ranging experience in voluntary surveys for bats, birds, dormice, amphibians, and butterflies.