Reptile Best Practice Event

Join staff of Forestry and Land Scotland, reptile expert Stephen Corcoran and a conservation detection dog handler to find out more about FLS appraoch to surveying and managing reptiles on peatland sites.

As part of returning Longbridge Muir – near Dumfries – and the surrounding area known as Lochar Mosses to its former status as one of the most significant areas of lowland raised bog in Europe, FLS has implemented a comprehensive strategy to safeguard species including adders, slow worms and common lizards.

FLS Peatland Restoration Officer George Hemstock said:

“The restoration at the site will improve water levels, restore peat-forming habitats and strengthen biodiversity.

“However, equally as important as restoring the rare bog habitat, is ensuring reptile populations are protected. To minimise disturbance to reptiles, work is being carried out in phases over three years, allowing animals time to move safely across the site. Key refuge areas — such as dry, south-facing bog edges where reptiles bask and hibernate — are being retained and protected throughout operations.”

All activities are guided by detailed surveys and planning processes, ensuring environmental considerations are fully integrated before work begins.

A range of site-specfic mitigation measures have been implemented to protect reptile populations at Longbridge Muir, including creating new hibernacula from peat, tree mateiral and brash. Survey methods include the placement of corrugated roof sheets, to act as microhabitats, allowing observation of reptile populations.

The day will start at FLS South Region Office at 55-57 Moffat Rd, Dumfries (whatthreewords///exporters.healthier.cubs), before moving to the site at Longbridge Muir (w3w///hunk.cleansed.graduated). There is some parking vailable in the office carpark. If this is full, on-street parking is available on Carnegie Street and Greystone Avenue. Please park considerately and do not block any driveways.

PLEASE NOTE - there is a chance that this will be a live peatland restoration site in September, in which case full PPE will be required. This includes Hi-Viz, hard hats and saftey boots. This will be advised nearer the time. (We can supply some hi-viz and hard hats, if required for those who do not possess these).

There are limited spaces on this training course. Please please do not book and take up a place unless you intend to come along. In the event that you can no longer attend, please cancel your place as soon as possible, so that others can take up the opportunity.