Welcome

The Reptile and Amphibian Group for Somerset (RAGS) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting the interests of wild, native reptiles and amphibians across Somerset and forms part of the national ARG-UK network. 

Working closely with all other relevant conservation organisations, RAGS aims to raise awareness of the county’s snakes, lizards, newts, frogs and toads, providing expertise for a variety of advisory and educational purposes, while keeping enthusiasts connected with one another. 

There is no membership fee and everyone is welcome to join.

What we do:

  • Survey sites across the county, mapping the distribution of reptiles and amphibians and monitoring recognised populations.
  • Provide survey training workshops for volunteers to develop skills in identification and survey techniques.
  • Provide practical advice to land managers on habitat management and enhancement for reptiles and amphibians.
  • Advise the public on all aspects of reptile and amphibian conservation, providing appropriate assistance when any concerns arise.
  • Undertake practical conservation tasks to create or enhance habitat such as scrub removal or pond restoration.
  • Provide talks to interested groups within the county on topics relating to native reptiles and amphibians.
  • Organise occasional visits for members to reptile and amphibian sites both within the county and further afield.
  • Organise toad patrols at busy road crossings during the annual spring toad migration.

None of our work would be possible without the help of volunteers and enthusiasts. So, if you would like to become involved please feel free to contact us and we’ll add you to our mailing list for updates on voluntary activities. 

We maintain a database of distribution records and are always interested to hear from anyone about sightings of reptiles or amphibians across the county. 

We would urge people to contact us if they have any queries or concerns associated with reptiles, amphibians, or their habitats within Somerset.