Reptile Ecology and Survey Techniques

Date: -
Location: Tyland Barn, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3BD
Suggested for: Adults | Beginners | Improvers
Price: Standard fee: £37.50 per person per day.
Concessionary fee: Kent Wildlife Trust volunteers, senior citizens, unemployed and students £5 off.
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Identify and learn about reptile requirements. Then search for them in Vinters Valley Nature Reserve, a nature reserve nearby 

This study day begins with a session in the classroom at Tyland Barn covering reptile ecology and identification followed by a look at some of the habitat requirements of reptiles and survey techniques.

In the afternoon there will be a site visit to Vinters Valley Nature Reserve to undertake a survey for reptiles and habitat assessment, as well as an opportunity see how site management can be modified to create a habitat suitable for reptiles (& other species). A great way to put lessons learnt in the morning into practice.

By the end of the session participants will be able to:

  • Name all four native reptiles found in Kent
  • Identify all four species native to Kent
  • Name the key components of good reptile habitat
  • Understand two methods for surveying for reptiles

Suitable for beginners and those wishing to improve their identification and survey skills.  Please note that only adults aged 18 and over can now attend our Study Days.  This is for safeguarding and insurance reasons.

Led by Steve Songhurst, Kent Reptile and Amphibian Group (KRAG)

Please note that toilets are available at Tyland Barn. Vinters Valley Nature Reserve is located approximately 10 minutes drive away from Tyland Barn. The reserve has on road parking (Cul de sac).

  • Cafe/refreshments

  • Disabled parking

  • Toilets

MORE INFORMATION

What to bring:

Packed lunch and drinks, clothing suitable for the season and sturdy shoes or walking boots. There is now an independent café in the Barn which is usually open on Saturdays so you may be able purchase additional refreshments there.

Other sites visited: 

Vinters Valley Nature Reserve. Vinters Valley Nature Reserve is located approximately 10 minutes drive away from Tyland Barn. The reserve has on road parking (Cul de sac). 

Please note the presence of reptiles does vary according to weather conditions although May usually provides good opportunities for sightings of reptile species.

The afternoon session will take place at Vinters Valley Nature Reserve and the ground is uneven. Please contact us if you have any mobility issues, which may impact on you being able to walk around the nature reserve.

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