Recent Kent Records


I was recently contacted by Ian Andrews who sent me a list of his 2004 reptile and amphibian records from Kent. Records collected in this way are tremendously useful in allowing conservation practitioners to better understand the distribution of threatened species. It is surprising just how under recorded even seemingly ubiquitous species like the common frog are. So, while munching over a festive mince-pie (or three) why not dig out your old notebooks and send me a list of your observations?

Remember even old records are very important and can help us to rediscover sites. For an example of how important this can be look back at our recent trip to Pembury.

Ian's records included observation of viviparous lizard, grass snake, smooth newt and great crested newt from Monkton Nature Reserve , marsh frog from Oare Marshes and more viviparous lizard from Hothfield Common. Not only that but the world of digital photography now means that species identifications can be readily confirmed by email. Ian sent me several photos of the animals that he observed this year.

I have tried on several occasions to get a really good photo of a grass snake in the field. However, grass snakes are extremely shy animals and difficult to approach. Despite this Ian has managed to get an excellent shot of a grass snake swimming in one of Monkton's ponds.

grass snake swimming

Swimming Grass Snake (© Ian Andrews)

For more of Ian's excellent photos check out his website.

Posted: Sun - December 5, 2004 at 11:24 am        

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