Reptiles

Reptiles such as adders, grass snakes, common lizards and slow worms rely on the heat from the sun to warm their bodies in order to become active. Therefore, these creatures are only active during the warmer months, typically from March to October. During this time they can sometimes be seen basking in the sun on south-facing banks, or rocks, or underneath debris, such as discarded corrugated iron sheets. They hibernate throughout the colder, winter months, during which time they seek refuge underground or, for example, in log or rubble piles.

The reptiles listed above are all protected under Schedule 5 of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act.

NWS can undertake reptile surveys on sites that are proposed to be developed. Should reptiles be discovered on a site, we can advise clients on, and undertake, any mitigation required, for example reptile translocations and habitat creation.