Reptiles are declining globally, driven primarily by habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and habitat fragmentation. In England, where we have only six native reptile species these challenges are particularly critical. 

Habitat design could play a crucial role in reversing these declines. However, it might not meet the specific needs of reptiles unless habitats are carefully designed and managed with reptiles’ habitat requirements in mind. 

By considering reptiles in habitat design we can ensure that efforts to create and enhance habitats for biodiversity net gain benefits also support reptile conservation efforts.

Ecological consultants, Ana Togridou and Stuart Graham, are piloting a spreadsheet to enhance biodiversity of native species when planning, which for the first time includes reptiles in the assessment. The launch of the pilot spreadsheet featured in the December 2024 edition of CIEEM In Practice magazine.

"We assessed the suitability of each habitat type within the statutory Biodiversity Metric[1] for the UK’s six native reptile species[2]. We used our findings to develop a spreadsheet[3], the ‘BNG and Reptile spreadsheet’, that Ecologists, Local Planning Authorities, Conservation Organisations and Land Managers can use, together with site specific information, on their BNG projects to identify whether baseline habitats, and post-development habitats being enhanced or created for BNG are suitable for individual native reptile species.

While the guidance provided is formulated by experienced professionals, it does not constitute official legislation or fall under the official guidance of the Statutory Biodiversity Metric. It is imperative to adhere to the rules and principles as outlined by the statutory biodiversity metric user guide and by BNG good practice. Additionally exercising professional judgment remains crucial.

We value expert opinion, and if a decision is made to update our assessment, a note will be published on the ARC website. We would like to thank Amphibian and Reptile Conservation for hosting the spreadsheet at their website" Says Ana Togridou

Please direct your feedback to [email protected] and [email protected].

Download spreadsheet

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