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Build a reptile sunbed

Make a sunbed to provide a warm, sheltered spot for reptiles, and observe the wildlife it attracts.

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You’ll need

  • Corrugated rust-proof metal sheet
  • Drill
  • Short length of rope
  • Utility knife
  • Metre ruler or tape measure
  • Pencil

Before you begin 

  • Use the safety checklist to help you plan and risk assess your activity. There's also more guidance to help you carry out your risk assessment, including examples.
  • Make sure all young people and adults involved in the activity know how to take part safely.
  • Make sure you’ll have enough adult helpers. You may need some parents and carers to help.

Planning and setting up this activity

  • The best corrugated sheet to use is Onduline. This is used in roofing. It has a tar (bitumen) coating that will get warm, even with little sunshine. Onduline usually comes in 1m x 2m sheets. You can cut the sheet in half to make 2 sunbeds. Use a Utility knife to cut Onduline. - A saw's teeth can catch on the bitumen and make cutting difficult.
  • Avoid using corrugated iron. It can rust and release harmful chemicals into the environment.
  • A cheaper alternative is carpet tile. However, this is flat, so it can be hard for reptiles to get underneath.

Running this activity

  1. Measure and mark a line down the middle of your 1m x 2m sheet. You'll be cutting in into halves.
  2. Carefully, with adult supervision, cut the sheet in half with a Utility knife to create two 1m x 1m sheets.
  3. Drill two holes near one edge of the sheet. Space the holes about 15cm apart and roughly the same distance from the edge. Make sure the holes are big enough to thread the rope through.
  4. Make a rope handle, so you can easily lift your sunbed to check on any wildlife underneath. You can do this by threading the two ends of the rope through the two holes and tying a knot in each end.
  5. Place your sunbed in a sunny and quiet spot, ideally next to long grass or a log pile. You could also add some rocks, twigs, bricks or plants around the sheet.
  6. Check under your sunbed around once a week from spring to autumn. Approach it quietly, then gently lift the sunbed using the handle to check what’s underneath. Make sure not to check it too often, as you could disturb the wildlife underneath. You could also find reptiles sunbathing on top.
  7. You could keep a diary of the different wildlife you find underneath. If you’re lucky, you might find slow worms, which are legless lizards, or even grass snakes. On the RSPB website, you can find out about six reptile species that are native to the UK.  

Reflection

This activity was all about exploring the wonders of the natural world, and discovering often-overlooked creatures. What creatures did you discover, and why were they attracted to the sunbed? Is there anything you’d like to find out more about?

How effective was your sunbed at attracting wildlife?  Is there anything you’d do differently next time? What else could you create to help local wildlife?

Think about what it was like spending time outdoors in nature. How did it make you feel? 

Safety

All activities must be safely managed. You must complete a thorough risk assessment and take appropriate steps to reduce risk. Use the safety checklist to help you plan and risk assess your activity. Always get approval for the activity, and have suitable supervision and an InTouch process.

You must run your activities in line with the Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults (Yellow Card) and report any concerns to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.

Sharp objects

Teach young people how to use sharp objects safely. Supervise them appropriately throughout. Store all sharp objects securely, out of the reach of young people.

Craft: Unusual substances

Supervise young people appropriately when they’re using unusual substances, such as powdered paint, ash or dirt. Be aware of any medical conditions that could be affected by what’s being used. Make sure you follow all relevant safety guidance or manufacturers guidelines, where available. Make sure you dispose of it appropriately too, in line with safety guidance.

Gardening and nature

Everyone must wash their hands after the activity has finished. Wear gloves if needed. Explain how to safely use equipment and set clear boundaries so everyone knows what’s allowed.

Outdoor activities

You must have permission to use the location. Always check the weather forecast, and inform parents and carers of any change in venue.

Hand and electric tools

Inspect tools for any damage before each use. An adult should supervise people using tools, and people should follow instructions on how to use them correctly and safely. Tools should be properly maintained and kept sharp.

Use an appropriate surface and make sure materials are stable and supported when you’re working on them. You should cut and drill away from the body and in an area clear of other people. Be extra cautious of trailing cables and water when using electric tools. Always use a cordless tool if one’s available.

PPE

Before completing this activity make sure you have suitable personal protective equipment (PPE). This could include eye or ear protection, gloves, and anything else you need to protect yourself. You’ll know what you need as a result of completing the risk assessment for the activity.

Make it accessible

All Scout activities should be inclusive and accessible.

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