Autumn webinar series – Seeking Sanctuary – conserving amphibians and reptiles in burial grounds
31st October 2023
Amphibians and reptiles have a special place in many of our hearts – perhaps stemming from fond childhood memories of collecting tadpoles in jars, or the thrill of catching a glimpse of a lizard as it disappears into a stone wall.
Burial grounds are perhaps not an obvious place to find amphibians and reptiles, but the combination of tussocky grassland, sunny areas and old stonework makes them an ideal place for these shy creatures to feed, bask and shelter. This week we welcomed Dr Angela Julian from Amphibian and Reptile Groups of UK (ARG UK) to talk about amphibians and reptiles in the UK.
There are thirteen native amphibian and reptile species in the UK as well as several non-native species.
Species in red – are rare and unlikely to be found in burial grounds Species with one tick – are ones we may find in burial grounds Species with two ticks – are ones we have a higher chance of finding in burial grounds
(To help with identification visit ARG UK’s webpage for some excellent downloadable guides:
In order to understand how we can help the amphibian and reptile population, Angela outlined some of the pressures they are under.
1. Habitat Loss: One of the most pressing threats to these species is the loss of their natural habitats due to agriculture, development and forestry activities. Amphibians and reptiles rely on specific habitats for breeding, foraging, and shelter, and when these habitats are destroyed, their populations decline.
2. Habitat Fragmentation: Even when habitat is not completely lost, it can be fragmented into isolated patches, making it difficult for amphibians and reptiles to find suitable mates and resources. Fragmentation can lead to genetic isolation, reduced population viability and vulnerable to extinction.
3. Disease: Amphibians, in particular, are vulnerable to infectious diseases like chytridiomycosis, which has caused significant declines and extinctions in amphibian populations worldwide. Reptiles can also be susceptible to various diseases that impact their populations. Being aware of the risk of transmitting diseases is important when handling amphibians and reptiles – using disinfectant such as Virkon to clean out buckets is important
4. Persecution: Some amphibians and reptiles are harmed and killed. For example adders particularly are still sought out and killed – possibly out of fear. Raising public awareness and education is important.
5. Predation: Predation by birds (corvids, game birds, raptors, herons) and mammals (including foxes, badgers and domestic cats) can threaten amphibians and reptiles. This risk is lessened when populations are in good habitat with plenty of hiding places – such as burial grounds!
6. Climate Change: Rising temperatures and alterations in rainfall due to climate change can impact the thermal and moisture requirements of these cold-blooded animals. Changes in climate can affect their distribution, behaviour, and ability to find suitable habitats. For example hot try summers are not good for adders. Mild winters are not good for amphibians because they do not hibernate properly.
The webinar session then went on to discuss how to survey the amphibians and reptiles already in our burial grounds (which can help inform management) by the use of refugia, and how important it is to engage the wider community in conservation efforts.
When we consider the mosaic of habitats, minimal human disruption, and the natural and stone features, it becomes evident why burial grounds can be alluring havens for cold-blooded creatures seeking food, shelter, and nesting sites. What’s more, with communities genuinely committed to stewarding their spaces in a way that supports the well-being of amphibians and reptiles, it’s no wonder that many burial grounds stand as true sanctuaries for these remarkable species.
