Reptile Surveys
Expert Reptile Surveys for Planning – Ensuring Compliance, Protecting Wildlife.
At Quantock Ecology, we provide expert reptile surveys to assess the presence and distribution of reptile species on development sites. These surveys are often required as part of an Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) or may be recommended following a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) if suitable reptile habitat is identified.
Why Are Reptile Surveys Needed?
All native reptile species in the UK—including grass snakes, slow worms, common lizards, and adders—are legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. While they are not European Protected Species (EPS), it is an offence to intentionally kill, injure, or disturb them. Reptile surveys help determine appropriate mitigation measures to ensure compliance with legislation while allowing development to proceed.
When Are Reptile Surveys Conducted
Reptiles are seasonally active, meaning surveys are conducted during optimal conditions:
- Optimal Survey Season: April – September
- Peak Activity: Spring (April – June) and early autumn (September)
- Survey Times: Warm, dry days with temperatures between 9–18°C
How Are Reptile Surveys Carried Out?
Our surveys follow industry best practice, in line with Natural England guidelines, and typically involve:
- Habitat Suitability Assessment – Identifying suitable reptile habitats such as grasslands, scrub, heathland, and brownfield sites.
- Presence/Likely Absence Surveys – Deploying artificial refugia (e.g., roofing felt or carpet tiles) to attract basking reptiles, followed by a series of site visits to record species present.
- Population Assessments (if required) – Additional surveys to estimate population size if reptiles are found.
What Happens If Reptiles Are Found?
If reptiles are present, Quantock Ecology will provide tailored mitigation strategies to ensure legal compliance and safeguard reptile populations. This may include:
- Habitat manipulation (e.g., phased vegetation clearance)
- Reptile translocation to a suitable receptor site
- Habitat enhancement to maintain ecological connectivity
Expert Advice & Support
Our experienced team ensures a pragmatic and legally compliant approach to reptile surveys, helping clients meet planning requirements efficiently. If your project requires a reptile survey, contact Quantock Ecology today to discuss your needs.
