Found only among certain southern patches of heathland and coastal dunes, or areas with sandy soil such as Wales, Essex, Dorset and Hampshire, the vibrant green sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) is one of Britain’s rarest reptiles.

As with so many other species across the country, the sand lizard once enjoyed widespread habitats and a healthy environment. It requires the open, sunny conditions essential for the species’ thermoregulation and breeding. However, the dramatic urban development and intensification of agricultural chemical use of the 20th Century left the small reptile’s population in a sorry state. Exact numbers are difficult to ascertain due to its elusive character and the variability in monitoring practices.

In the nineties conservationists efforts began. These included captive breeding, habitat restoration and reintroductions alongside advocacy campaigns to engage and inspire the public. Sandy environments have been recreated along the Thames Estuary and animal grazing have been used to improve suitable heathlands. In Surrey and Dorset, topsoil was removed to expose bare sand perfect for nesting. Work is also underway to reconnect fragmented habitats through wildlife corridors to improve genetic diversity and reduce the risks from inbreeding.

Sand lizards serve as both predators and prey. Utilizing their speed and agility, they primarily feed on invertebrates, while also being a food source for birds of prey and mammals.

As indicator species they are a welcome sight. Their presence means the ecosystem is working well for other creatures and drives to conserve and increase their numbers serve wider biodiversity goals.

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) has been at the forefront of captive breeding programs, successfully propagating sand lizard numbers in carefully monitored environments. These efforts have led to the release of hundreds of individuals into the wild, significantly aiding in the species’ recovery.

These reintroduction programs are carefully monitored to ensure the lizards adapt well to their new environments and begin breeding successfully. Sites are chosen based on habitat suitability, with ongoing management to maintain optimal conditions. The success of these programs is evidenced by the establishment of new, self-sustaining sand lizard populations in areas where they had previously disappeared.

Having acknowledged the wider plight of countless British species, the government has also taken positive steps by introducing policies and regulations to encourage local authorities and developers to consider wildlife in planning.

Despite these positive trends there is still a long way to go for vulnerable and rare species such as sand lizards. However, collaborative efforts offer hope.

By continuing to manage and expand appropriate sand and heath habitats, nurturing their populations through captive breeding and pressuring governments to introduce protective legislation the long term prospects of sand lizards begin to look brighter.