Reptile Surveys
There are 6 native reptile species in the UK : Common lizard, Slow worm, Grass snake, Adder and the UK’s rarest the Sand lizard and Smooth snake.
All reptiles are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. With sand lizard and smooth snake receiving additional legal protection as European Protected Species.
All reptiles are therefore protected, making it an offence to:
- intentionally kill or injure a reptile
- sell, offer for sale, or transport for sale these species (or parts of them).
Reptiles can be affected by works including:
- Developments that remove or impact suitable grassland, woodland or scrub mosaic habitats.
- If reptiles are known to occupy within nearby or connected sites and the site has suitable habitat.
The best time of year to conduct surveys can be found in our ecology calendar.
If your Preliminary Ecological Appraisal has highlighted concerns about reptiles within your site - you may need the surveys listed down below:
Adonis Blue will work with you to carry out the necessary surveys for your site.
Call Adonis Blue on 01622 357 821 or email hello@adonisblue.org.uk to arrange a quote
Reptile Surveys
Here are the main types of reptile surveys used in development contexts:
Present/Absent Survey
- Purpose: To determine the presence or likely absence of reptiles.
- Method: Felt refugia (mats) placed two weeks before the survey. Then 7 visits spread between 21 days to check refugia (mats).
- Timings: Optimal survey conditions are April -September, between 9-18°c, with no heavy winds or rain.
- Number of surveys: 7 visits with an additional one for the deployment of refugia (mats).
Translocation
If the present/absent surveys find a suitable reptile population within the site, this survey will need to occur prior to development starting.
- Purpose: To relocate reptiles to a receptor site that is comparative in size and habitat quality.
- Method: Refugia should be in place for 2 weeks before the surveys begin. Then checked everyday for a set period (normally 60 days), surveys can stop when 5 consecutive days bring back no reptiles.
- Timings: Optimal survey conditions are April -September, between 9-18°c, with no heavy winds or rain.
Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW)
Before a reptile translocation can begin, both the receptor site and reptile exclusion fencing must be in place. These steps require oversight from an experienced Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) to ensure compliance with legislation and best-practice guidance.
Once the translocation phase is completed, a trained ECoW will also be needed on site to supervise the two-stage vegetation clearance. This process typically includes:
- Stage 1: A first strim of vegetation down to 150 mm
- Stage 2: A second cut down to ground level, undertaken 24 hours after the first
- Final Stage: A topsoil strip carried out using a toothed excavator, under ecological supervision
This staged approach ensures reptiles have the opportunity to disperse safely and reduces the risk of harm during site preparation works.
Our team can support you through every step of the process — from fencing installation to ECoW supervision and data collection — ensuring your development progresses smoothly, lawfully, and with minimal ecological impact.