Ideal time to Herp.

[Flywaver]

The temperature is meant to warm up considerably from Wednesday to over the weekend. 10-13c. How many days do we need like this to see our resident reptiles basking?

[marvin]

hi

reptiles remain alert for much of the time they are 'hibernating' and may even move around to generate warmth. they therefore remain sensitive to temp changes and some may 'pop' out to bask at any point. it isn't common though. you also have to know exactly where the animals are overwintering as they will remain there for a couple of months yet. you may get lucky but i don't think i'll be going out much until late feb/early march for common lizards and male adders and a bit later for grass snakes. don't get slowworms, sand lizards or smooth snakes locally.

good luck
tim

[Flywaver]

Im thinking of trying my luck at Cavenham Heath later in the week.
Got a rough idea of the hibernaculum for the species. Im after some stunning pics. Best to get them whilst there slow!

[ViperaBerus]

A couple of weeks ago when it warmed up, I spotted a Common lizard out and basking. It was the only one though, and no adders or slow-worms. Soon be herping time though. Whooopiiiieeeee!!!!

[Flywaver]

Do Vipera Berus prefer rabbit borrows,uprooted trees,log piles or cut ferns for hibernating? All these are around Cavenham Heath. No doubt ill find something im not looking for like Natrix Natrix. That would be a bonus!

[marvin]

disused mammal burrows are a favourite, although these may be covered by brash, dead ferns etc anyway. if you haven't yet identified the hibernacular look for slightly raised south facing areas that are in full sun yet sheltered from cooling winds, e.g. by a line of trees. these areas create their own little micro climate which can be a couple of degrees warmer than the ambient temp so of significant benefit early in the season.

might be worth sending keith on rauk a pm to see if he'll show you around.

good luck
tim

[JaySteel]

I've got three weeks off work from February 28th so that's when I'll start looking for Adders again. Hopefully I'll get some male Adder photos to add to my website.

[Flywaver]

Thanks Marvin. Im already a member on there and have sent a message. Counting on the weather!

[Ukwildlifeo]

Checked an ok site for herps today as it was sunny and fairly warm but there was no sign of reptiles around midday.

[Flywaver]

I too went out yesterday and the sun came out and the Car said 11c outside but alas no Reptiles. I guess its down to consistency of the temp staying like this for a few days for Vipera Berus to stir..