Science & data

Conservation Science and Monitoring

Scientific research underpins the conservation activities carried out by Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. This includes the development of robust monitoring techniques on which the status of our species can be assessed.

Some of this research is carried out by students from Bournemouth University, and other institutions, who carry out work placements or dissertation projects (2-3 students per year are catered for). Current students are investigating the effects of grazing on reptile habitats and smooth snake ecology. Such research is central to our core mission, so we aim to support other academic investigations where possible.

Results of this research are disseminated widely. Some is presented in the form of talks at the annual Joint Scientific Meeting (organised with the British Herpetological Society) on Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, Ecology and Biology, usually held in December (details of this meeting are announced on the website in late summer).

The ability to assess how well a species is faring is critical to ensure its future conservation. For many years, we have run national monitoring schemes for the rare species (natterjack toad, sand lizard, smooth snake) and, more recently, we have implemented new national schemes covering all UK herpetofauna. There is growing concern that even our widespread amphibian and reptile species are in national decline, and we need surveys to tell us more about trends in their status across the UK.