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Reptile Surveys

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Reptile Surveys FAQs

Lucion’s licensed ecologists have extensive experience in designing tailored solutions to help our clients navigate challenges posed by protected reptile species. We’ll work closely with you and the local planning authority to identify appropriate mitigation measures, which may include habitat creation, sensitive fencing, and the careful relocation of any individuals found. By proactively addressing reptile considerations, we can help you keep your project on track and satisfy all regulatory requirements.

Reptile survey data is generally considered valid for 1-2 years, depending on the scale and nature of your development. If your planning application is delayed or your project timelines change, you may need to update the surveys to ensure the data remains current.

If reptiles are confirmed present, you will likely need to implement a mitigation strategy to avoid, minimise or compensate for any impacts. Lucion can manage this process on your behalf, designing tailored solutions that satisfy all legal requirements while enabling your project to proceed.

The standard reptile survey process includes a scoping/Phase 1 survey to assess habitat suitability, followed by more intensive Phase 2 surveys between April and September. These involve placing artificial refugia across the site and monitoring them for evidence of reptiles over a series of visits.

The most reliable method for assessing the presence or absence of reptiles on a site is through the use of artificial refugia. These shelter the reptiles and basking sites that mimic their natural habitat features. The refugia typically consists of materials such as corrugated metal sheets or bituminous roofing felt, cut into approximately 0.5-metre square pieces for ease of transportation and deployment across the survey area. By strategically placing these artificial shelters and monitoring them over multiple visits, our ecologists can confidently determine whether reptiles are utilising the site and identify the species present.

Reptile surveys can only be conducted between April and September, when the animals are most active. The optimal survey periods are typically April-May and September. However, the initial Phase 1 survey can be undertaken at any time of year.

The UK’s six native reptile species are protected by law, meaning it’s an offence to deliberately kill, injure or disturb them, or to damage or destroy their habitats.  

These include; 

  • Smooth Snake 
  • Grass Snake 
  • Adder 
  • Slow Worm 
  • Common Lizard 
  • Sand Lizard 

 

If your development has the potential to impact reptiles, you are legally required to undertake surveys and obtain the necessary approvals before proceeding. 

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