Where to find Adders, Smooth and Grass Snakes in the UK

There are three species native to the UK:

• Adder
• Grass Snake
• Smooth Snake

You may be wondering whether you are likely to stumble across one in your local area, or perhaps while you're away on holiday (within the UK).

Native wild animals in the UK

To help you out, the RSPB has rounded up the locations where the UK's native snake species can be found.

Where you'll find snakes in the UK

Adders

Adders are the only venomous snake species in the UK and are recognisable due to their "distinctive" zig-zag pattern and "striking" red eyes.

Adders are the only venomous snakes native to the UK. (Image: Getty Images) The RSPB added: "Its venom is mainly used for subduing its prey and bites to humans are uncommon but do be sure to keep a respectful distance!

"If you accidentally disturb this timid beauty and get bitten, you will need to seek medical treatment."

They can grow up to between 60cm to 80cm in length.

While Adders usually keep a low profile, they can be found across the UK, even as far north as mainland Scotland, according to the RSPB.

The wildlife charity added: "The best way to spot one is by scouting out south facing areas in early to mid-spring and scanning for a basking snake.

"At this time of year, they’ll soak up as much sun as possible, after emerging from a long winter hibernation."

Grass Snakes

Grass Snakes usually have an "olive green colour, with large eyes and round pupils" and can grow up to a metre in length, making them the largest in the UK.

Grass Snakes are the largest species in the UK. (Image: Getty Images) These native snakes are commonly found across much of mainland England and Wales, with a small number situated in southwest Scotland.

Smooth Snakes

Smooth Snakes are the smallest species in the UK, only growing to around 55cm in length.

Smooth Snakes are "shy and incredibly scarce". (Image: Getty Images) The RSPCA said: "They're typically a greyish brown in colour, have a dark stripe down the side of their face, a heart-shaped pattern on their head and a pattern of spots and bars along their back!"

Smooth Snakes are "shy and incredibly scarce", the RSPB added.

The wildlife experts continued: "They’re heathland specialists, but their habitats were historically repurposed at scale for commercial forestry and development."

RECOMMENDED READING:

• How to tell the difference between adders, grass snakes and smooth snakes?

• See the top 4 locations in England with the most snakes

• Snake species not seen in UK for 300k years returns after 'accidental release'

Smooth Snakes can now only be found in isolated pockets of:

• Dorset
• Devon
• Hampshire
• Surrey
• West Sussex

They are highly dependent on nature reserves and managed sites, including RSPB Arne.

Have you ever spotted a snake in the wild? Let us know in our poll above or the comments section below.