Prior to construction for a new facility to provide environmental services, the construction site was identified as featuring diverse land cover types that potentially support native lizard habitats. A Lizard Management Plan (LMP) was needed to safeguard native lizard populations during the construction process.

Morphum was engaged to develop a LMP detailing the methodologies and procedures for the salvage and relocation of native lizards from the construction site. A phased approach was outlined, which included systematic reduction of the available habitat, aimed to encourage lizards to move to safer environments. Manual and mechanical assistance in vegetation removal and lizard searches post-felling were then undertaken to ensure no lizards remained in the cleared area. In total, four protected Copper Skinks were safely relocated to a nearby reserve.

The Lizard Management Plan emphasised the importance of preparing the relocation site by implementing pest control measures to safeguard the relocated lizards from predators.

Additionally, the plan includes provisions for a post-relocation monitoring program, particularly if more than fifty lizards are relocated, to track their adaptation and survival in the new habitat. In this case, this ongoing plan was not required.

The LMP, reviewed and authorised by a qualified herpetologist, underscores Morphum’s commitment to protecting native lizard species during the construction, ensuring that future environmental advancements do not come at the expense of local biodiversity.

‍