Smooth snake  (Coronella austriaca)

The main cause of the decrease in the range of this snake has been the widespread loss of suitable heathland sites due to development and the creation of conifer plantations (2). On remaining heathland, major problems arise due to the small size of populations, which are unable to recover after fires and other sudden events (7). Neglect and inappropriate management such as over-grazing, or poor fire prevention can lead to scrub invasion and loss of habitat structure. It can take more than 15 years for a heath to recover the mature stands of heather required by the smooth snake (2).

The heathlands of southern England have been the focus of a concerted conservation effort since the 1970s. Volunteer groups organised by the British Herpetological Society and The Herpetological Conservation Trust's professional team have carried out appropriate management such as scrub clearance and the creation of bare sand patches and mown areas which act as fire breaks (7). A reversion to management by low-intensity grazing to maintain heathland is receiving much interest, but it is unknown how this will impact on the smooth snake (2). An action plan has been developed, although this snake is not an official UK Biodiversity Action Plan species.