Reptiles

There are six species of British reptiles: grass snake, adder, smooth snake, slow worm, common lizard and sand lizard. Of these, the smooth snake and sand lizard are uncommon and very localised in distribution. Both are fully protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats & c.) Regulations 1994 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended (WCA). The adder, grass snake, common lizard and slow worm are much more common and widespread and can often be found on brownfield sites and in urban situations, as well as in gardens and the wider countryside. These reptiles all receive some protection under WCA.

The main threats to reptiles are loss of habitat and fragmentation of habitat. Reptiles hibernate during winter and are only active between spring and autumn, although this is highly weather-dependant. For this reason, surveys can only be conducted during the active periods. Mating occurs in spring with live young being produced by the adder, smooth snake, common lizard and slow worm from late summer. The grass snake and sand lizard lay eggs in early summer and young hatch from late summer to early autumn.

Legal Protection and UK BAP Status

The following legislation applies to reptiles in the UK:
• The Conservation (Natural Habitats & c.) Regulations 1994
• The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended (WCA)
• The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW)

Smooth snake and sand lizard are fully protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats & c.) Regulations 1994 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as amended. The adder, grass snake, common lizard and slow worm receive some protection, including from killing and injury, under WCA. The sand lizard is a priority species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan and is also considered to be a Species of Principal Importance for the Conservation of Biodiversity in England under section 74 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.

Greenprint Ecology services related to reptiles

  • Full reptile surveys at potential sites to ascertain presence/absence;
  • Monitoring surveys;
  • Where appropriate, mitigation work including translocation, receptor site selection and habitat management;
  • Habitat management and improvements;
  • Advice concerning all aspects of reptile presence.

common lizard, one of many uk reptiles

 

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