Snakes of the UK

There are 3 species of snake native to the United Kingdom

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There are three species of snake native to the UK: adder, grass snake and smooth snake. Depending on where you are will affect what type of snake you're more likely to see.

Adder: The adder is a greyish snake, with a dark and very distinct zig-zag pattern down its back, and a red eye. Males tend to be more silvery-grey in colour, while females are more light or reddish-brown. Black (melanistic) forms are sometimes spotted. Adders are small, around 60 to 80cm and are mostly likely to be spotted in woodland, heathland and moorland habitat

Grass snake: The grass snake is usually greenish in colour - although this can vary. They have a yellow and black collar, pale belly, and dark markings down the sides. They are our longest snake and can grow up to 150 cm. They are usually spotted in wetlands and grasslands but can be seen in gardens too. They can be attracted to compost heaps where they sometimes lay their eggs.

Smooth snake: Similar in appearance to the adder, the smooth snake can be distinguished by its more slender body, round pupil and less well-formed dark pattern on its back. It is usually grey or dark brown in colour and around 60-70 cm in length. The rare smooth snake can only be found at a few heathland sites in the UK.

Where to spot UK snakes and other reptiles

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