THE SHUTTLE (Kidderminster, UK) 07 April 08 Help sought for reptile watch
A team of wildlife experts have launched a new three-year initiative and are calling for the public's help to protect the Wyre Forest's elusive reptiles.
The project is called the Grow With Wyre Landscape Partnership Scheme.
The number of snakes and lizards in the Wyre Forest and the UK has declined over the past 20 years and some species of snakes and lizards are currently under threat.
Central Ecology, the Forestry Commission's wildlife team, Wyre Forest Study Group and volunteers have now teamed up to gain an insight into the local distribution of reptiles to protect and enhance their habitat in the Wyre Forest.
They are also calling on local people to report any sightings as part of the survey.
Wyre Forest is one of the last strongholds for the adder and there are also grass snakes, slow worms and common lizards to look out for in the region's forests and gardens.
People should report any sightings of reptiles in their gardens or surrounding areas to Nigel Hand, project co-ordinator, on 01531 636033 or e-mail nigel.hand@virgin.net.
People are also advised not to touch any reptiles they spot but take a photo of them to aid identification, if possible, and leave the creatures undisturbed.
Nigel Hand, of Central Ecology, said: "This exciting new project will help us learn more about the snakes and lizards living in the Wyre Forest landscape and enable us will to protect them and their habitat.
"We're also asking for the help of local people. Helping us to find out where the reptiles are living will improve our understanding of their needs so we can all play a role in safeguarding their future."
The project is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of the Grow With Wyre Landscape Partnership Scheme and supported by Forestry Commission, Natural England, Wyre Forest Study Group, The National Trust, as well as other partners and private landowners.
Phil Rudlijn, wildlife ranger for the Forestry Commission in the Wyre Forest, said: "We're really keen to get local people involved in recording and protecting these reptiles.
"Hopefully, we can get householders enthusiastic about these fascinating creatures and perhaps encourage them to manage their land sympathetically.
"If we all do something - no matter how small - we can make a difference."
For further information on how you can get involved or if you wish to send records, contact Nigel Hand, project co-ordinator, on 01531 636033 or e-mail nigel.hand@virgin.net.
For more information on wildlife in the nation's forests, visit www.forestry.gov.uk/wildwoods.
Help sought for reptile watch