Protected Species: Reptiles

There are six native species of reptile in the UK and all receive protection under UK law.  Smooth snakes and sand lizards have a highly restricted distribution in the UK and receive full and stringent protection under the Habitats Regulations (1994) (as amended) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) (as amended).  These species are found only in the south of England (a large percentage of the populations are found in Dorset) and are found only in heathland and sand dune habitats.  We employ experienced herpetologists licensed to survey and handle smooth snake and sand lizard.

Grass snake, slow worm, common lizard and adder are common in the UK and receive partial legal protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act: it is illegal to kill or injure these species.  These reptiles are frequently encountered on development projects and are commonly found on brownfield sites.  Our practice has substantial experience in devising and implementing mitigation programmes for these species and can offer the following services: