The National Reptile Survey aims to assess the conservation status of the widespread species of reptile native to the UK: common lizard, slow-worm, grass snake, adder. All of these species have experienced declines in recent decades, whether nationally, regionally or locally, primarily due to habitat loss. Previous assessments of reptile status have generally relied upon questionnaire surveys or single-site monitoring schemes, and there is an acute need for robust, quantitative data to inform conservation policies such as the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. To make national assessments, we need to survey an unbiased and statistically representative sample of sites across the UK, in a systematic and repeatable way.

The National Reptile Survey will involve volunteers surveying 1 km squares, targeting effort at the most likely areas of habitat most likely to support reptiles, using a combination of visual search and artificial refugia if possible. Surveys will involve three visits beginning in the spring, but can continue through the summer. Additional visits are encouraged as they increase the chances of detecting reptiles. To maximise detection, surveys must target appropriate weather conditions and times of day (according to the season). The primary aim will be to gather presence-absence data on each reptile species, and to record habitat information and other factors that affect population viability. Counts will be encouraged where relevant and possible, but are not mandatory.

By randomly selecting a set of 400 survey squares, spread evenly across all Vice Counties, we have generated a sample of data-points that should adequately represent the whole UK. By identifying which reptile species are present in each square, we will calculate percentage occupancy rates for each species at a national level. By repeating the survey each year, we aim to monitor national trends in the status of our reptiles over time.

We aim to provide free one-day training courses in all parts of the UK during March and April, and no prior experience is necessary. All volunteers will be trained in reptile identification, habitat assessment, survey methods and practicalities, to equip them with the knowledge and information they need to take part. We have a page listing the training courses, to help you find one near you.