Reptile Surveys in Berkshire
Do I need a reptile survey for my development in Berkshire?
If your project may affect a reptile habitats, a professional survey is essential — we provide compliant reports to support planning consent.
Fast, Clear, Planning-Ready Support
Fast response
Calls answered in 2 rings, emails replied to within the hour.
Free expert advice
Clear guidance before you commit.
Cost-effective
Working in partnership with clients to ensure planning approval first time
Typical 10-day turnaround
Industry Leading Standard
Expert Team
We stay with you from first call through to submission.
Do you need a Reptile Survey in Berkshire?
Berkshire’s river corridors, grassland, scrub and brownfield land provide suitable habitat for common reptiles including slow worms, grass snakes and common lizards.
A reptile survey identifies species presence and assesses potential impacts from development. Ecologists carry out repeat site visits using refugia and visual search methods to understand distribution and population levels. Survey findings support mitigation planning and ensure compliance with planning requirements. Berkshire authorities frequently request reptile surveys where semi-natural or brownfield habitats may be affected.
You may need a reptile survey if your project involves:
clearance of grassland or scrub between March–October near Reading or Slough
works along river corridors or floodplain habitats
brownfield redevelopment or infrastructure projects
development affecting hedgerows or field margins
any site highlighted as having reptile potential in a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)
A postcode review can quickly indicate whether your site is likely to support reptiles.
We provide reptile surveys across Berkshire, including Reading, Slough, Maidenhead and Windsor.
Why Planning Officers in Berkshire Request Reptile Surveys
Berkshire planning authorities require reptile survey evidence where suitable habitat is present to ensure development complies with the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 and national planning policy. Without early, proportionate evidence, applications are frequently delayed through validation queries, requests for further ecological information, or seasonal survey constraints that can halt project programmes and necessitate design amendments.
Local Case Insight
How Reptile Surveys Work
We take a practical, proportionate approach, carrying out reptile presence checks and habitat assessments, identifying areas of suitable habitat, and inspecting grassland, scrub, rough ground, and brownfield sites before works begin. Our Reptile Survey reports provide clear mitigation and timing recommendations, are fully LPA-ready, and outline any precautionary measures required to protect reptiles. We also give straightforward next steps for contractors, focusing on clarity and practical guidance so your project can proceed safely and confidently.
Key Deliverables for projects in Berkshire:
We provide a clear, proportionate, practical approach which includes:
- Habitat suitability assessment
- Presence/absence reptile surveys using approved refugia methods
- Targeted mitigation strategies (only where necessary)
- Timing guidance for clearance and works
- Reporting designed for LPA validation
- Next steps tailored to designers, planners and contractors
We help you plan works across Berkshire safely around reptile habitats, ensuring compliance while keeping your project on schedule.
Step 1
Schedule
Send your site details and programme. We confirm the correct level of survey.
Step 2
Fieldwork
Site walkovers, habitat suitability assessments, refugia checks, and activity monitoring for reptiles.
Step 3
Reporting
Planning-ready reports with impact assessment, mitigation options and timelines for site teams.
Step 4
Integration with other Surveys
Only if needed. PEA, EIA, and Protected Species surveys
Next Steps
Need a reptile survey in Berkshire? Let’s confirm your site’s requirements and keep your project on track.
FAQ - Reptile Surveys in Berkshire
Are reptile surveys commonly required in Berkshire?
Yes. Sites with grassland, hedgerows, riverside vegetation, or brownfield land may require assessment before development.
Which species are commonly surveyed in Berkshire?
Grass snakes, slow worms, common lizards, and occasionally adders are the main species of interest.
When should a survey be scheduled?
Surveys are typically conducted from March to October, with April–June being most effective due to peak activity.
How many visits are normally needed?
Usually multiple visits (2–7) are required to collect accurate data across the site.
What mitigation is implemented if reptiles are found?
On-site retention of habitat, phased clearance, and creation of refuges are common measures.
Can surveys impact planning timelines in Berkshire?
Yes. Completing surveys outside the active season may delay planning approval, so early scheduling is recommended.
