The role of managed coniferous forest in the conservation of reptiles

•Reptile utilisation of managed conifer plantations of varying age was determined.•3–12year old plantations had the highest reptile numbers and species diversity.•Plantations with a tree canopy cover greater than 65% had the fewest reptiles.•A mosaic of small plantations of varying age enhanced reptile population stability.•Sensitively managed forests are not the wildlife deserts they are perceived to be.