The National Amphbian and Reptile Recording Scheme


The National Amphibian and Reptile Recording Scheme (NARRS) is a volunteer survey, targeting the nationally widespread amphibians (great crested newt, smooth newt, palmate newt, common toad and common frog) and reptiles (viviparous lizard, slow-worm, grass snake and adder). The purpose of the survey is to provide robust assessments of the conservation status of each species. To do this, NARRS need to survey a representative sample of sites across the UK in a systematic and repeatable way. By repeating the survey over time, NARRS aim to monitor trends in the status of our widespread herpetofauna

The survey visits will record each species, and gather information on habitat quality. The number of sites surveyed will need to be large enough to provide reliable conclusions and allow extrapolation for the whole country. Seven 1 km survey squares have been selected in Kent (details available from KRAG on request).

NARRS will provide training and licensing as necessary, and allocate survey squares for volunteers to survey. Results will be submitted either directly to KRAG or online via the NARRS website.

The survey involves:

- Registration with NARRS (either directly or through KRAG)
- Arranging permission with a landowner(s) to survey a pond or area of land.
- For ponds, one to three repeat visits over the course of the spring.
- For reptiles, three visits starting in the spring, but can continue through the summer.
- Return of data collection, preferably online.

NARRS aim to provide free one-day training courses for surveyors in all parts of the UK during March and April, and no prior experience is necessary. All volunteers will be trained in amphibian identification, habitat assessment, survey methods and practicalities, to equip them with the knowledge and information they need to take part. NARRS have a page listing the training courses, to help you find one near you.

Each surveyor will be allocated a 1 km square (or several 1 km squares, if so desired). Surveyors will arrange permission with the landowner to carry out the survey, but NARRS will provide some simple pointers to make this easier. NARRS will arrange any licensing that is required (subject to satisfactory completion of training). NARRS will be cooperating closely with KRAG to maintain support and contact between surveyors, particularly those with little experience.

Training courses will be held during the spring, in as many parts of the country as possible.

If you would like to get involved please sign up on the NARRS website or contact KRAG.

Lee Brady

Posted: Wed - March 7, 2007 at 04:32 pm        

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