Building Skills in Reptile Survey Techniques

This course will introduce you to the theory of reptile survey techniques, followed by a practical demonstration of reptile field survey and finally how to record the results. By the end of the course, you will be able to design, carry out and record the results of a reptile survey using standard methods.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Explain the different ways Reptiles can be surveyed in the UK
• Conduct a variety of reptile survey techniques
• Describe how reptile species occurrence records can be submitted and how they have been used to broaden our understanding of British reptile distributions
• Share this knowledge with friends, family, and fellow volunteers

Who Should Attend? – The course is suitable for anyone with a personal or professional interest in surveying for reptiles. This could include nature enthusiasts, students, early career ecologists, citizen scientists, and volunteer surveyors.

Knowledge Level – Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following web-page: Framework and Course Level Descriptors

Prior Knowledge – Knowledge of British reptile identification and ecology is beneficial, but not essential.

PLEASE NOTE the course fee is for tuition only. There is no accommodation provided with this course.

Bookings will close if course capacity is reached.

Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.

About our partner, ARC

The Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) was established in June 2009. ARC was created around the core of the Herpetological Conservation Trust (HCT), in response to the wider needs of herpetofauna conservation, providing the UK focus for all aspects of reptile and amphibian conservation. ARC continues to focus on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, creating an extensive network of nature reserves, coordinating monitoring programmes and volunteer networks and developing an effective role in advocacy both within the UK and Europe.

Dr Rob Ward

Dr Rob Ward is a conservation biologist who has been working with amphibians and reptiles for 15 years and completed his PhD on the ecology and conservation of grass snakes. He is currently the Data and GIS Officer for the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) where his work includes developing reptile and amphibian monitoring programmes and managing the organisation’s data and mapping.

Example Timetable

This timetable is subject to change but should give a clear outline of what to expect.

• Please arrive in time for the course to start promptly at 9:00am
• The course will end at 4:00pm

9:00am Introductions
9:30am Classroom session covering: Introduction to reptile survey theory
10:30am Break and prepare for field session – refreshments not provided 
10:45am Field Session - including practical demonstration of reptile survey techniques
12:00pm Lunch – Not included
1:00pm Continued field session
2:45pm Break – refreshments not provided 
3:00pm Classroom session covering: Recording reptiles
3:45pm Plenary and final questions
4:00pm Finish

Please note accommodation, refreshments and an evening meal are not included.

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  Expert Tuition

The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you continue to build and develop your knowledge and apply it within the field surrounded by like-minded individuals.

The course includes:

• Classroom learning covering the theory of the species
• Field excursions to apply new knowledge
• Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
• Clear objectives and progression

You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing an FSC course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.

Student Discount

This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.

What to Bring:

• Notebook and pencil
• Camera to capture images
• Lunch and refreshments
• Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors

You may wish to purchase the FSC Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians to enhance your experience

There will be a member of staff with first aid training and access to a first aid kit on site. If you have special medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course.