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.
These animals are given so called ‘partial protection’ under UK law, and it is an offence to deliberately kill or injure individual animals. 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.
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 Devon, including areas such as South Hams, Teignbridge, Torridge, Plymouth, Torbay and the Dartmoor National Park.
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 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 scarce species smooth snake and sand lizard, although these are only rarely found on development sites.
For more information, please call us on 02920 650 331, or email enquiries@acerecology.co.uk.
