Welcome to the Norfolk Amphibian and Reptile Group (Norfolk ARG) website.

The Norfolk ARG is a grassroots conservation group formed of volunteers, aiming to help improve the knowledge and the conservation status of reptiles and amphibians in Norfolk. We are one of a number of ARG groups across the country, all working under the ‘ARG-UK’ umbrella. 

The core objectives of the organisation are:

• Conservation of Norfolk's reptiles and amphibians
• Monitoring of a number of key sites
• Advising and consulting
• Education and training (for both members and the public)

We are always on the lookout for new members to help achieve these aims, no experience is necessary as we can provide full training. Some of our activities are very hands on and others are desk-based allowing everyone to get involved not matter their ability or time commitments.

Native amphibians and reptiles

Native Norfolk herpetofauna includes the adder (Vipera berus); barred grass snake (Natrix helvetica); slow worm (Anguis fragilis); common/viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara); common frog (Rana temporaria); common toad (bufo bufo); natterjack toad (Bufo calamita); great crested newt (Triurus cristatus); palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus) and smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris).

Norfolk is also the reintroduction site for the native pool frog (Pelophylax lessonae) which became extinct in the UK. A 2005 reintroduction project saw specimen brought over from Sweden to re-establish a UK population, a second population has since been establised. This work has been undertaken by the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust.

Alien species

Like many other counties, Norfolk is also home to populations of non-native herpetofauna species such as the midwife toad (Alytes obstetricans). It is important to monitor these species and to study their impact on our native species.

Please feel free to join the chat on our Facebook group.