All British reptiles are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended by the CRoW Act 2000) and listed as Species of Principal Importance under the provisions of the NERC Act 2006. Grass snake, slow worm, common lizard and adder are protected against intentional killing, injury and against sale; whilst the rarer smooth snake and sand lizard are also protected against disturbance whilst occupying a ‘place used for shelter or protection’ and the destruction of such places.

In addition, smooth snake and sand lizard are protected under the Habitats Regulations 2010, making them European Protected Species. Following a desk study to find out if records exist on or near the site a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal will confirm whether further survey is necessary. Surveys are undertaken during reptiles’ active season, April, May and September. Numbered mats are laid out across the site and checked regularly during suitable weather conditions.

Terrestrial reptiles tend to favour south-facing slopes and mosaics of exposed and sheltered microhabitats, which can provide shelter from the elements as well as basking areas for thermoregulation. Terrestrial reptiles reduce their metabolic processes in the colder months of October to March by entering a period of hibernation, when they seek shelter. They are typically site-loyal and often return to the same hibernation areas every year.