"Do I actually need a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal?" A question we get asked regularly. What is a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal? A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) is an initial ecological assessment that identifies: Habitats present on a site. The potential for protected species to be present. Ecological constraints that may affect development. Whether further ecological surveys are likely to be required. Opportunities to enhance biodiversity. Think of it as an