CRAG aims to increase awareness and action on behalf of Cornwall's reptiles (snakes and lizards) and amphibians (frogs, toads and newts) Its activities include
Outings and meetings to develop members knowledge of the species found in the county
Participation in survey work
Practical conservation tasks
We also have social activities and get togethers with other specialist wildlife groups.
The group is open to anyone who would like to be involved with amphibian and reptile conservation in Cornwall.
A small annual subscription of £5.00 is payable by all Members, except students who can currently become a member for £1. New members are welcome to apply to join at any time. Click the Membership tab for full details.
Please record all sightings of reptiles and amphibians seen in and around Cornwall - that includes non-natives such as terrapins. The easiest way to do this is to click on the 'Record a sighting' tab above and fill out the form. Although we love watching these animals from a safe distance, sadly not everyone appreciates them so please remember never to share exact locations on social media.
Thank you to everyone who showed up to the Joint CRAG/CWT outing to Penhale on Sunday 20th May 2018.
The weather was ideal for the visit. Our small group was treated to sights of no less than 22 slow worms, as well as a grass snake and a small toad.
Special thanks to Cornwall Wildlife Trust ranger, Jon Cripps, who was also able to point out some of the rare flora and fauna that make this a very unique location.
CRAG AGM 2017
Posted on Saturday 4th November, 2017
The CRAG AGM 2017 took place at Cornwall College, Newquay on Monday 9th October.
Successes over the past year include a well-attended trip to Carn Moor, the setting of tins and monitoring at Tregantle (nr Saltash) and a surge in new members thanks to CRAG's attendance at various events including the Freshers Fair at Cornwall College, Newquay.
Nicola Morris and Steve Green chose to step down from their secretary positions due to pressure from other commitments. Jade Clayson has taken on general secretary duties, while Ruth Corbett will be the new Membership Secretary.
Helen gave us an update on her work with Sand Lizards and their habitat management.
We discussed the situation and requirements of sites we currently monitor and suggested new sites we could take on.
Hi all, I am a researcher at the University of Exeter (Penryn Campus) investigating frog colouration and predator vision. I am looking for potential sites in Cornwall to conduct my research: anything from small garden ponds, to larger natural habitats that may be home to the common frog. If you are able to help, or would like to know more about my research please get in touch: ar430@exeter.ac.uk – thanks! Alice Rosen
CRAG AGM 2016
Posted on Wednesday 1st February, 2017
The CRAG AGM 2016 took place at the Hawkins Arms, Zelah on Thursday 22nd September.
We discussed the success of recent events and plans for future events, and recent conservation activities by CRAG, SINNG and Cornwall College Newquay.
As Paul Diamond has stepped down as chair and Tamsin Lee has moved away, a new chair and secretary were appointed. This resulted in many of the committee members taking on different roles or new responsibilities. Our new chair is now Chris White and Nicola Morris is our new secretary, assisted by Steve Green.
We voted on whether CRAG should be affiliated with the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. As most of the committee members felt that it was important for us to remain independent as a group, we declined to become affiliated.
Helen gave us an update on her work with Sand Lizards and their habitat management.
If you have any questions about reptiles or amphibians please contact our Science Officer below.
CRAG is always looking for new volunteers to help with habitat management and species monitoring. If you would like to get involved, please get in touch.