Acer Ecology was commissioned to undertake a reptile survey of a site in Cardiff, South Wales.
Our reptile specialists are experienced in surveying, mitigation design, and on-site supervision, and have the capacity to take on projects in the nearby area including Caerphilly, the Vale of Glamorgan, Newport and Rhondda Cynon Taff.
The Law and British Reptiles
There are four widespread species of British reptile, comprising grass snake, slow-worm, adder, and common lizard. All of them are commonly encountered on development sites. All British reptiles are given so-called ‘partial protection’ under UK law, where it is an offence to deliberately kill or injure them. The habitats of common reptiles are not specifically protected, though developers are often obliged to replace any reptile habitat lost as a result of development.
Reptiles Surveys and Mitigation
There are two techniques used for reptile surveys – a visual search and the use of artificial refugia. Surveys are undertaken between April and September when reptiles are active and unlikely to be hibernating.
Reptile mitigation must also occur between 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: smooth snake and sand lizard, although these are only rarely found on development sites.
Do you require a reptile survey?
For more information about reptiles surveys, please call us on 02920 650331, or email enquiries@acerecology.co.uk.
