|
|
Adder’s are found throughout Britain, right up to the north of
Scotland, but their secretive nature and camouflaged markings
mean they often go unnoticed. This can sometimes be a good thing
- as the only venomous snake in the UK they have often been
persecuted in the past. Adder bites are painful but rarely fatal
and usually only occur if the snake is disturbed or deliberately
antagonised. Adders are a sturdy looking snake and are easy to
distinguish from the other native species.
adults 60-80cm (rarely more than 80cm).
males are grey with black markings, females are brown with dark
brown markings.
a distinctive zigzag pattern down the back and a ‘V’ or ‘X’ on
the head.
widespread and common but thought to be declining; protected by
law from deliberate killing, injury and trade/sale.
Females incubate their eggs internally and ‘give birth’ to live
young in August/September. Litters range from 3 to 20 and the
young will stay with the mother for a few days.
After feeding up during the autumn, adders hibernate between November and March.
Adults emerge during March/April and this is the most common
time of year for bites – the animals are sluggish and less able
to escape quickly. Mating takes place in April/May. Adults
usually feed on small mammals and lizards (so their venom does
not need to be particularly potent; it is marginally more potent
in early spring after the animals have emerged from
hibernation). They spend their time in undisturbed habitats such
as open woodland, moorland and heathland and are rarely
encountered in gardens, though this depends on surrounding
habitats.
Loss of habitats and persecution.
|