Acer Ecology has recently undertaken a reptile survey for an area of land marked for a residential development within the Brecon Beacons.
In the UK, there are four widespread species. These are the slow-worm, common lizard, grass snake and adder. All of these species are commonly found on development sites and are given ‘partial protection’. This means that it is an offence to deliberately kill or injure individual animals.
There are also two scarce species of native reptiles – the smooth snake and the sand lizard. These two species are only rarely found on development sites, but if development proposals will affect them a Protected Species Licence is required.
British Reptiles, Surveys and Mitigation
Reptile surveys combine two techniques – a visual search and the use of artificial refugia. Surveys are seasonally constrained to between April and September when animals are active and unlikely to be hibernating.
Reptile mitigation is also constrained to the same time period. It generally involves the erection of reptile-proof fencing and the use of artificial refugia. Substantial effort is required to capture and transfer animals off-site to pre-prepared receptor sites.
Our ecologists have extensive experience in surveying and designing mitigation for reptiles and can advise you on survey methodology, legal protection, mitigation options and the timing of development works.
We cover the Brecon Beacons area, including Crickhowell, Nant-ddu, Pen-y-Cae, Libanus, Pencelli, Sennybridge and Talgarth. We also have the capacity to undertake surveys in the neighbouring counties of Monmouthshire, Blaenau Gwent, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire.
Contact Acer Ecology on 02920 650 331, or email enquiries@acerecology.co.uk.
