A nature reserve near Hoddesdon is providing a safe refuge for slow worms which need to be moved from a planned housing development in Buntingford. Rye Meads Nature Reserve, run by Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust (HMWT), has been selected to provide a suitable home for this legless member of the lizard family.
The slow worms were discovered by Dr Jenny Jones of Jones and sons Environmental Sciences in the Autumn of 2007, following a request for a full protected species survey by Grange Builders of Sawbridgeworth. During further surveys in 2008 she discovered a thriving population of slow worms and recommended their removal (translocation) to ensure their safety. To date, in excess of 1,000 individuals have been found and moved to suitable alternative areas.
The slow worms have been collected all summer by Jones and sons Environmental Sciences prior to the reptiles’ release to safe sites. Before capture could begin, the three hectare site had to be surrounded by a special reptile fence to prevent slow worms from the surrounding area moving onto the site. Some reptiles have been released onto other sites but the unexpected numbers of slow worms captured prompted Jenny to contact HMWT to help locate a suitable nature reserve to take them to.
Jenny explained: “Slow worms have very specific habitat needs - they prefer long, rough grassland, with mature trees nearby with hollows by their roots for the animals to hibernate in, a good source of food and sloping grass banks, logs or rocks to bask on. Whilst grassland is not difficult to find, it can be tricky to find grassland that is not being regularly mowed to a very short level or may be ploughed in the future by land owners. Slow worms simply can’t cope with this.”
Rye Meads nature reserve is a wetland haven, known mostly for its wide diversity of birdlife, but there are also grassy areas suitable for slow worms, and quiet, tranquil patches for them to bask in. There is also a plentiful supply of their favourite food- slugs and earthworms.
As a protected species, the reptiles must be moved to a safe, suitable area prior to development of the site as they are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981). This means that it is an offence to intentionally kill or injure them.
Tim Hill, HMWT’s Conservation Manager said: “We’re delighted to be able to provide a safe haven for these slow worms at Rye Meads Nature Reserve, following the impending loss of their current home. Unfortunately development continues to threaten important habitats across the counties but the Trust is working hard to ensure that wildlife receives the protection it deserves."
He continued: "Rye Meads is just one of 43 nature reserves managed by the Trust which supports both nationally and internationally important wildlife communities. Our reserves also provide great places to see wildlife at close range from special viewpoints and hides."