Amphibian and Reptile licensing - Survey, science, research, education and conservation

Surveys for great crested newts and natterjack toads

It is estimated that only about a sixth of all great crested newt breeding ponds in the UK have been identified.  In some areas this figure is likely to be much less.  Natterjack toad populations are also likely to be under-recorded.  Surveys, providing they are carried out according to best practice, should be able to show whether or not these species are present on a site and can also be used to determine whether or not they are breeding, estimate population sizes or identify how they use different habitats.

The most common methods of survey for great crested newts include 'torching', egg searches, terrestrial searches, netting and bottle-trapping, all of which require a licence from Scottish Natural Heritage.

The most common methods of survey for natterjack toads include undertaking terrestrial searches, egg-searches and netting, and listening out for their distinctive call.  All but the last technique for searching for natterjack toads are likely to require a licence from Scottish Natural Heritage.    

Download an application form 

Licences for scientific or research purposes

If you are planning to carry out any experiment or research that might otherwise result in offences being committed in relation to great crested newts, natterjack toads or the places in which they live you will require a licence for science, research or educational purposes.  Licences for this purpose are administered by Scottish Natural Heritage.

Download an application form  

Licences for conservation purposes

If you have a proposal that is purely for conservation purposes that might affect great crested newts or natterjack toads, for instance management of vegetation in a breeding pond, then you should consider whether or not it might otherwise result in an offence being committed in relation to these species.  If it would then you are likely to require a licence from Scottish Natural Heritage.

Download a licence application form  

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