Reptiles and amphibians

Narroways has most of the more widespread British reptiles and amphibians because of the range of habitats and a combination of sunny embankments and damp shady areas. Hay cuts on Narroways in late summer have uncovered large numbers of reptiles and amphibians – we saw 31 frogs, 26 toads and four lizards in a haycut in September 2002.

Reptiles

Grass snakes have been recorded just twice in the area. Once was in June 2000 near the steps by the New Barn site.

Common lizards are seen each year on the allotments, Narroways and perhaps especially on south facing railway cuttings between March and October.

Slow worms seem to thrive round here. They are frequently seen on Narroways and on allotments, but also on paths, back gardens and even once indoors! Sightings are usually between March and November.

Name	Latin name	Notes
*Grass Snake	Natrix natrix	Very occasional sightings of this reptile in summer around Narroways and in the Boiling Wells area.
*Common Lizard	Lacerta vivipara	Regularly sighted on allotments, Narroways and perhaps especially on railway cuttings. Reports between March – October.
* Slow Worm	Anguis fragilis	Despite the depredations of cats & small boys, slow worms seem to thrive round here. Formerly sighted under corrugated iron on Narroways and now frequently under old carpet on allotments but also on paths, back gardens and even indoors. Reports between March & November. Largest number – 14 seen when clearing allotment (HMcP 17.5.1998)

Amphibians

Common frogs are frequently reported in the area – in ponds, allotments and in long grass between January and November.

Common toads are also frequently seen on allotments and on Narroways in damp shady spots between February and September.

The common or smooth newt lives in colonies on at least four ponds in the locality. There were 15 in one pond in February 2007. There are also palmate newts in a garden pond near Ashley Hill

Name	Latin name	Notes
* Common Frog	Rana temporaria	Frequently reported in area – in ponds, allotments and long grass between April – November.
*Common Toad	Bufo bufo	Seen on allotments and on Narroways in damp shady spots between April – September.
Common/Smooth Newt	Triturus vulgaris	Colonies on at least 4 ponds in locality.
Palmate Newt	Triturus helveticus	Reported from one local pond.

* = Actually seen on Narroways
HMcP = Harry McPhillimy