In contrast to other European countries, the diversity of reptiles in Ireland is very low, with only one native species (the common lizard) and one introduced species (the slow-worm, only found in County Clare). The common lizard is protected by national legislation, under which it is an offence to:
- Kill or injure a lizard
- Damage or disturb their breeding or resting places
Although rarely seen, the common lizard is relatively well distributed throughout Ireland, particularly in bog, heath and coastal habitats. In early morning and late evening they bask in open areas, and for the remainder of the day they feed and shelter in areas with dense ground cover. Between October and March they hibernate in dense undergrowth, piles of stone / logs or underground.
If a development is likely to disturb the preferred habitats of lizards (e.g. bogs, heathlands, sand dunes, rough grassland), a planning authority may ask an applicant to commission a lizard survey and submit a report as part of their planning application. Lizard surveys are requested more frequently in Northern Ireland than in the Republic of Ireland.
Lizard surveys - what is involved?
Surveys typically involve placing artificial refuges (roofing felt or sheets of corrugated metal) in suitable habitat, and inspecting them throughout the summer. Surveys can only be conducted between April and September (when lizards are not in hibernation), and are most effective at the start and end of this period.
If evidence of lizards is found on a development site, mitigation measures may be required to avoid killing or injuring them during works, to provide compensatory shelter / hibernation sites, and to protect their feeding habitat. Suitable measures will be designed on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the project architect or engineer.
If you require a lizard survey please contact us for a quote or further advice.
