Reptile Surveys

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Why do I need a reptile survey?

When new land is acquired for site development or existing developed, vegetated land is used, various considerations have to be made to ensure any wildlife or habitats are not impacted or destroyed. Reptile habitats are varied, this variety can pose a problem, as it is harder to establish or predict where you may find reptiles. 

The need to identify and protect certain habitats, therefore, should be considered by all development as soon as possible. This is where we come in...

When to conduct a reptile survey

Reptiles are active between March and October. As for the rest of the year, most species are in a hibernation-like state, known as brumation. Bearing this in mind, April, May and September are good times to conduct the relevant surveys as emerging animals will be close to their winter sites. The hotter months can be tricky as many reptiles will likely seek shade and shelter or be most active at the very start and end of the day, we try to avoid the months of July and August for this reason. 

The initial phase 1 survey can take place at any time, as this is an initial assessment of the area – a site visit will usually establish if the habitat is suitable for reptiles or not, and any habitats of ecological importance will be established at this point. This is usually conducted via our Preliminary Ecological Appraisal. 

The second phase of the survey is where time restrictions come into place. The surveys will also need to consider hibernation periods for reptiles, which are generally between October to March but are usually triggered by things such as temperature. Bearing this in mind, it is always best to ensure plans are in place so that Phase 2 can go ahead as needs be, and not miss crucial seasonal timings that can delay your project.

Phase 2 is much more focused. It takes account of geography, topography, habitats, and local records. Artificial reptile refuges are introduced during Phase 2, which, mirrors some of the natural conditions used by reptiles in the area to take shelter or bask in. Refuges are created using sections of tin, roofing felt, carpet tiles, or Onduline. Phase 2 must take place between April and September, as this is when animals are active.

All native reptile species receive legal protection in Great Britain under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Common lizard, slow-worm, grass snake and adder are protected against killing, injuring and unlicensed trade only. Sand lizard and smooth snake receive additional protection as “English Protected Species” under the provisions of the Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 and are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).

All six native species of reptile are included as ‘species of principal importance’ for the purpose of conserving biodiversity under Section 41 (England) of the NERC Act 2006 and Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016.

What will I need to do? 

Mitigation plans may be necessary if there is evidence of reptiles present. Mitigation will seek to prevent the long-term effects of development and will include plans for how to avoid, reduce or manage the impact on the reptile in question. Mitigation for Smooth Snake and Sand Lizard may require a licence from Natural England as part of the work.

Often a Reptile Mitigation Plan is required, especially on larger sites, which will document the mitigation measures in place and their duration. 

Common reptile mitigation is the installation of Reptile Fencing to the development boundary. We supply and install all types of wildlife fencing in-house. 

With professional and experienced ecologists on hand, we can deliver efficient, cost-effective ecology surveys with all the necessary licenses and expertise. If you are in need of a reptile survey or are keen to learn more about our professional ecology services, contact us today.