This beginner Sand Lizard course covers the identification and ecology of this protected species, as well as survey techniques. This course is specifically aimed at environmental consultants, land agents and planners, but anyone with an interest in Sand Lizards is welcome to attend. 

This course will include:

  • Classroom and field learning techniques allowing you to gain confidence in Sand Lizard identification.
  • Discussion of licensing issues and ecology.
  • Visiting one of the Sand Lizard reintroduction sites at Talacre to look for Sand Lizards and their dune habitat.

Read More

This course will combine classroom and field learning techniques allowing you to gain confidence in Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) identification, and an understanding of licensing issues and ecology. We will visit one of the reintroduction sites at Talacre to look for Sand Lizards and their dune habitat. If the weather conditions are favourable we would hope to see adult males and females basking.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

  • Confidently identify Sand Lizards
  • Understand the Sand Lizard ecology, legalities and licensing
  • Describe and identify different survey techniques for Sand Lizards

Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, students, rangers, early career consultants and ecologists.

Knowledge Level – Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following web-page: Framework and Course Level Descriptors.

Prior Knowledge – No existing knowledge or experience is needed for this course, just a willingness to explore and learn.

Bookings will close if course capacity is reached. 

Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.

About the Tutor

Mandy Cartwright

Mandy Cartwright is a conservation ecologist who has been working with amphibians and reptiles for over 15 years. She is the north Wales officer for Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust, where she manages a suite of reserves and projects dedicated to conserving amphibians and reptiles and their disappearing habitats.

Example Timetable

This course will involve both classroom learning and field excursions to cover all of the learning objectives. Please arrive in time for the course to start promptly.

Lunch is not included so please bring your own food. Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be provided.

 

What's Included

  • Expert Tuition

The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you build your knowledge and apply it within the field surrounded by like-minded individuals.

The course includes:

  • Classroom learning covering the theory of the species
  • Field excursions to apply new knowledge
  • Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
  • Clear objectives and progression
  • Refreshments (tea/coffee)

You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.

Bursaries and Subsidies

Student Discount

This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.

Natural History Bursaries

There are a number of natural history bursaries available to help with the cost of your course. To find out if you and your chosen course are eligible, read more here.

Before You Attend

What to Bring

  • Notebook and pencil
  • Lunch and refreshments
  • Sensible, study footwear and clothing for being outdoors appropriate to the weather
  • Small bag to carry personal items

If you have them:

  • Close focusing binoculars

NB: For biosecurity, all footwear used for the site visit must be cleaned (free of mud) ahead of the training event; all attendees will be expected to disinfect their footwear on the day (before the field work session. Appropriate disinfectant will be supplied on the day. 

Recommended Literature

There will be a member of staff with first aid training and access to a first aid kit on site. If you have special medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course.

Opportunities to attend this course

  • Thu 08, May 2025 10:00 - 17:00

    Further information on Talacre Community Centre can be found here.

    Location
    Talacre Community Centre, Gamfa Wen, Talacre, Holywell, Wales, CH8 9RT
    Price
    £110.00
    Tutor
    Mandy Cartwright

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Progress Your Learning

This is a training course from the Field Studies Council, delivered by expert tutors with an approachable learning style. After attending this course, you may like to progress your learning with further relevant courses or branch out into other areas of natural history. The Field Studies Council offers both online and in-person courses, so you can choose the learning style that suits you best.

The course gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new subject and acquire novel skills. Our online portal gives you time to study at your own pace and fit the lessons around your own schedule.
If you have any questions about our courses please check out our Frequently Asked Questions or email [email protected].

Group Bookings Made Easy

If you have a group of 10 or more individuals wanting to complete one of our courses, our team are available to discuss your options – from discounts to private team courses. Find out more! 

You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be at your fingertips. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.