Reptile Surveys
Reptile surveys in Manchester and across the UK
All native reptiles are protected. A reptile survey tells you whether slow-worms, common lizards, grass snakes or adders use your site, and gives the planning authority the evidence it needs.
Our ecologists carry out reptile surveys across most of the UK from our base in Manchester on all kinds of development sites. Whether you’re preparing a planning application, assessing a site or discharging planning conditions, we’ll help you identify constraints early and reduce the risk to your programme. That includes sites right across Greater Manchester, where we can usually get to you at short notice.
What a reptile survey involves
- Placing artificial refuges (mats) in suitable habitat and checking under them
- Visual searches of suitable habitat such as grassland, scrub and brownfield land
- Population size estimates if reptiles are found
- A report for your planning application, with advice on mitigation or licensing if needed
When can reptile surveys be done?
A presence or absence survey involves seven visits between April and September, in suitable weather. These are the months when reptiles spend most time basking, so they are most likely to be found.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if reptiles are found?
Mitigation will be needed. This might mean keeping and improving habitat on site, or carefully moving reptiles to a suitable receptor area before works start. We’ll design an approach that fits your scheme.
Do brownfield sites need reptile surveys?
Often, yes. Old industrial land, railway land and overgrown sites can provide very good reptile habitat.
Get a quote
Send us the site address and a short description of what’s planned, and we’ll come back to you with a quote.
Fish Surveys and Fish Rescue
Safely capture and relocate fish before work to protect aquatic life and habitats.
Protected Species Surveys
Find out whether protected wildlife uses your site before works start.
Biodiversity Net Gain
Quantify habitat losses and gains to secure an uplift in biodiversity.
Invasive Species Surveys
Map and ID non‑native plants to guide land management & protect biodiversity.
River Condition Assessments
Assess river habitat to understand condition and guide restoration.
