Reptile Surveys
Britain is home to six species of reptile, four of which are widespread across Wales, namely the viviparous lizard, slow worm, grass snake and adder. Each of these species is protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes the intentional killing, injuring or selling of these species an offence. Additionally, the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 lists each of these reptiles as species of principal importance, which means that public authorities must take steps to maintain and enhance their populations during the exercise of their functions. Therefore, any proposals that include the destruction of habitat potentially used by reptiles risks committing an offence and must be preceded by an ecological survey.
Reptile surveys usually involve the use of Artificial Cover Objects (ACOs) along a walkable transect. ACOs typically comprise sheets of metal, onduline or roofing felt, which absorb heat and are used by reptiles for shelter and thermoregulation. These are placed along the transect route and left for a 14 day bedding-in period. Following this, the route is slowly and quietly walked by the surveyor, who will search for reptiles basking amongst vegetation alongside the transect, in addition to lifting ACOs and searching for reptiles basking beneath. At least seven site visits, in suitable weather conditions, are required to establish reptile presence on site.
