Acer Ecology recently carried out a reptile survey at a site proposed for development near the Malvern Hills.
We used a combination of bitumen roofing felt, corrugated bitumen and carpet tile squares to survey for the presence or absence of reptiles on the site. A low size population of slow-worm were recorded. We were then able to work alongside our client to ensure that the individuals on site were not adversely affected by works while helping our client’s project progress smoothly through the planning process.
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 the West Midlands, including the Malvern Hills, Ledbury, Worcester, Hereford, Upton-upon-Severn, Bromyard and Newent, as well as the counties of Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, Monmouthshire and Powys.
Reptile 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 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.
Reptiles and the Law
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.
For more information about reptile surveys, please call us on 02920 650331, or email enquiries@acerecology.co.uk.
