October brings shorter days, cooler temperatures and plenty of change for our native wildlife. As autumn sets in, amphibians and reptiles begin preparing for the colder months ahead.
As ectotherms, reptiles and amphibians rely on their surroundings to regulate their body temperature. When temperatures fall, they become less active and seek out safe, sheltered places to spend the winter.
Different species have different strategies. Common lizards spend autumn feeding before settling into sheltered spots amongst rocks, dead wood and vegetation. Newts may overwinter beneath logs, stones or underground, while some remain in ponds and may become active again during milder weather.
Adders can sometimes still be spotted basking in the autumn sunshine during October before retreating to traditional wintering sites. Slow-worms, grass snakes and common lizards may also use log piles, leaf litter, compost heaps and other sheltered spaces.
Help wildlife this winter
You can give reptiles and amphibians a helping hand by leaving areas of your garden a little wild. Log piles, fallen leaves, stones, compost heaps and dense vegetation can all provide valuable winter shelter.
You could also create a hibernaculum or a simple toad home to provide even more places for wildlife to shelter.
Remember to leave potential wintering sites undisturbed wherever possible! The animals hiding there need to conserve their energy until warmer weather returns.
Find more ways to help amphibians and reptiles here.
Reptiles and amphibians can still be active during colder months. Please record them on our free Dragon Finder app.