A PROJECT is taking place to protect a smaller rare resident of Denbighshire’s wildlife.

Linking with The Great Big Green Week’s theme of encouraging community action to tackle climate change and protect nature, a reptile resident is getting a big helping hand.

Denbighshire County Council's biodiversity team conducted several sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) surveys along the Gronant dune system.

This ongoing monitoring programme is part of the council's commitment to preserving and enhancing the rich biodiversity of North East Wales.

The programme emphasises the importance of reptile conservation in the region, particularly for the sand lizards found in these dunes.

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Gronant’s dune system holds particular ecological significance and serves as a crucial habitat for a wide range of species, including two of the counties reptile species – common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) and sand lizard.

Sand lizards, the rarest reptile in Wales, stand out as an emblem of reptile conservation efforts in North East Wales.

The conservation of this species, holds immense importance for North East Wales as sand lizard were historically driven to extinction in the 1960s before being reintroduced in the early 2000s.

Biodiversity officer Liam Blazey said: “These fascinating creatures play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the dunes.

“Their presence also serves as a barometer of the overall ecological integrity of the dune system.

Cllr Barry Mellor, lead member for environment and transport and biodiversity champion, said: “Safeguarding the habitats of sand lizards and other reptiles, the council not only helps to protect individual species but also contributes towards the overall health and resilience of our counties ecosystems.”