Reptile Surveys

There are six native reptile species in the UK, which in terms of status can be split into two groups. As such, varied and thorough reptile surveys are essential when considering works in their environments. The group of rare reptiles includes sand lizards and smooth snakes. The group of widespread reptiles includes adders, common lizards, grass snakes and slow worms. Rare reptiles are confined to just one or two habitats, whereas widespread reptile occupy a more diverse range of habitats which varies per species.

Unfortunately, all UK reptiles are declining to varying degrees as a result of habitat loss, degradation, heathland fires and fragmentation caused by humans e.g., agricultural intensification, urban development, etc. Even on protected sites they are not always safe, as standard habitat management measures do not always encourage reptiles to thrive (Edgar et al. 2010).

Reptile surveys must be conducted in suitable weather conditions, with a temperature between 9 and 18°C and in dry, sunny conditions.

Reptile Survey Legislation

All reptile species are protected under UK and European Union (“EU”) laws. Rare reptiles are listed under: Under these legislations smooth snakes and sand…

Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (“PEA”)

What Is a PEA? A PEA is typically required as a first step to address the ecological aspects of a planning application and can…

Presence/Absence Reptile Surveys

If suitable reptile habitats are found within a site for development, reptile surveys will need to be conducted to determine the likely presence or…

Population Estimates

Similar to presence/absence surveys in their methodology, population estimate surveys aim to establish the population size and distribution of reptiles on the development site….

European Protected Species (“EPS”) Mitigation Licences

If the proposed works are expected to have an impact on smooth snakes or sand lizards, a mitigation licence will need to be granted…

Installation & Removal of Mitigation Fencing

Reptile mitigation fencing is used to seal the perimeter of a site for development in order to help capture any reptiles within this site…

Translocation Works

Translocation works can only be done under an EPS mitigation licence granted by Natural England for rare reptiles and should be used as a…

Overseeing Works

A watching brief during construction works is undertaken to avoid killing or injuring individual reptiles; toolbox talks are also included. Hand searches and destructive…

Mitigation & Enhancements

Every mitigation and enhancement have to be tailored specifically to site, species and issues raised. Here are some examples of mitigation and enhancements for reptiles:

• installation of reptile fencing and translocation of individuals;
• destructive searching;
• creation of artificial hibernacula, bunds and grasslands;
• reduction of shade on suitable habitats;
• creation of a vegetation mosaic through planting schemes;
• creation of refuge habitats, such as artificial hibernacula, log piles and bramble patches.

What We Offer

Simply put, all development proposals have the potential to impact on local biodiversity. Therefore, Local Planning Authorities (“LPA”) require sufficient information to make informed decisions that wildlife can be protected from injury or disturbance during the development.

A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (“PEA”) is often required, followed by further reptile surveys if these species are likely to be present on a site for development. If reptiles are present, it is likely that a European protected species (“EPS”) licence and an appropriate mitigation strategy will be required in order to proceed with the works. Please note, EPS licences are only required for rare reptiles.