The United Kingdom is home to three unique snake species: the grass snake, adder, and smooth snake. Each of these snakes has its own distinct characteristics and can be found in various habitats across the country.
1. Grass Snake:
The grass snake, also known as the ringed snake, is one of the most commonly encountered snakes in the UK. They are non-venomous and have a slender body, typically reaching lengths between 3 to 5 feet. Their coloration can vary, but they usually have a greenish-gray or brownish hue, with dark markings along their back and sides. The grass snake’s belly is yellow or white, and they have a distinctive yellow or white collar behind their head.
These snakes are excellent swimmers and are often found near water bodies such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. They feed primarily on amphibians, fish, and small mammals, and are known to be particularly fond of frogs. I’ve had the pleasure of observing grass snakes in my local nature reserve, where they gracefully glide through the water in search of prey.
2. Adder:
The adder, also known as the viper, is the UK’s only venomous snake. Despite this fact, adders are generally shy and non-aggressive creatures that will only bite if threatened or provoked. They have a stocky build and can grow up to 2.5 feet in length. The coloration of adders can vary greatly, but they typically have a dark zigzag pattern running along their back, which provides excellent camouflage in their natural habitats.
Adders can be found in a range of habitats, including woodlands, moorlands, and grassy areas. They are cold-blooded, so they often bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature. Adders primarily feed on small mammals, such as voles and mice, as well as lizards and occasionally birds. While hiking in the Scottish Highlands, I was fortunate enough to spot an adder sunning itself on a rocky outcrop, its scales glistening in the sunlight.
3. Smooth Snake:
The smooth snake is the UK’s rarest and most elusive snake species. They have a slender body, similar to the grass snake, and can reach lengths of up to 2.5 feet. Despite their name, smooth snakes have scales that are slightly keeled, giving them a rough texture. They are typically gray or brown in color, with dark spots or bars along their back.
Smooth snakes prefer dry heathlands and sandy habitats, where they can hide amongst vegetation and burrow into loose soil. Their diet primarily consists of lizards, such as common lizards and slow worms, as well as small mammals. Due to their elusive nature, encounters with smooth snakes are relatively rare. I have only had the opportunity to see a smooth snake once during a guided nature walk in a nature reserve. It was a thrilling experience to catch a glimpse of this rare and secretive species in its natural habitat.
The UK is home to three fascinating snake species: the grass snake, adder, and smooth snake. Each of these snakes has its own unique adaptations and can be found in different habitats across the country. Observing these snakes in the wild can provide a deeper appreciation for the diverse wildlife that exists within the UK’s borders.