Acer Ecology has recently undertaken reptile surveys of a site proposed for development in Caerphilly.
There are four widespread species of British reptile. These are the adder, grass snake, common lizard, and slow-worm, and all of these are given so-called ‘partial protection’ under UK law. This means that it is an offence to deliberately kill or injure them. All of them are commonly encountered on development sites.
Reptile Surveys
Reptile surveys combine two techniques: a visual search and the use of artificial refugia. Surveys are conducted between April and September when animals are active and unlikely to be hibernating.
Reptile mitigation is also seasonally constrained to the period from April to September, and 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. Protected Species Licences are required if development proposals will affect the two scarcer species: the smooth snake and the sand lizard, although these two are only rarely found on development sites.
Do you require a reptile survey?
We are well placed to help you through the planning process in a cost-efficient and timely manner. 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’re able to provide our services across Caerphilly county, including towns such as Aberbargoed, Caerphilly town, Gelligaer, Risca and Ystrad Mynach. In addition to Caerphilly, we can also cover the neighbouring counties of Rhondda Cynon Taff, Merthyr Tydfil, Blaenau Gwent, Torfaen, Newport, and Cardiff.
For more information about reptile surveys, or regarding any of our other ecological services, please contact Acer Ecology on 02920 650 331, or email us at enquiries@acerecology.co.uk.
