“Adders: Britain’s Hidden Treasures and Conservation Challenges”

Introduction

Here at Chris Arnold Tree Surgery our Forestry Team occasionally spot an adder but we treat them with respect and reverence, I thought it would be useful to share some information on these fascinating and intriguing British Snakes. I would interested to hear about sightings you have experienced.

Adders (Vipera berus) are captivating creatures that inhabit various habitats across the United Kingdom. As the only venomous snake native to the UK, they evoke curiosity and sometimes fear. In this article, we’ll explore their population trends, lifestyle, and the intriguing phenomenon of “viper nests.”

Population Trends

Facing Near Extinction

Recent research conducted by the Amphibian and Reptile Groups of the UK (ARG UK) reveals alarming trends: 90% of adder populations surveyed are declining1. If these trends persist, adders could be restricted to just a handful of sites within the next 10-20 years. The adder, a conservation priority species, faces a serious risk of extinction in Britain.

Citizen Scientists to the Rescue

The data were collected through the ‘Make the Adder Count’ project, which relies on citizen scientists. Each spring, volunteers visit local adder sites to count the number of these elusive reptiles. The findings emphasize the urgency of conservation efforts to protect these remarkable snakes.

Life and Habitat

Habitat and Behavior

• Woodlands and Heathlands: Adders thrive in woodlands, heathlands, and grassy areas. They prefer sunny spots for basking and shady nooks for shelter.
• Cold-Blooded Sun Seekers: Being ectothermic, adders rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Basking in the sun helps them stay active and digest their prey.
• Solitary Creatures: Adders are generally solitary, except during the mating season (spring). Males compete for the attention of females, engaging in a fascinating “dance” to win their favour.

Diet and Predation

• Ambush Predators: Adders are ambush predators. They lie in wait, camouflaged among leaves and grass, and strike swiftly when prey (such as small mammals, birds, or lizards) ventures too close.
• Venomous Bite: Their venom is potent but primarily designed for subduing prey. Adders are not aggressive toward humans and will usually retreat if disturbed.

The Mystery of Viper Nests

What Are Viper Nests?

• Not Actual Nests: Contrary to the term, “viper nests” do not refer to physical nests like those of birds. Instead, they describe aggregations of adders during the mating season.
• Mating Aggregations: Male adders seek out females in specific locations. These gatherings, often near sunny spots, allow multiple males to court a receptive female.

Why Viper Nests?

• Mate Selection: The competition among males is fierce. By congregating in these “nests,” they increase their chances of encountering females.
• Phenomenon of Courtship: The intricate courtship rituals involve scent-marking, tongue-flicking, and body movements. It’s a fascinating spectacle of nature.

Conservation Efforts

How Can We Help?

1. Raise Awareness: Educate the public about adders’ importance in our ecosystems.
2. Respect Their Space: When encountering an adder, maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing them.
3. Report Sightings: If you spot an adder, report it to local wildlife organizations.

By sharing knowledge and fostering appreciation for these enigmatic reptiles, we can contribute to their survival. Let’s celebrate the adder’s role in our natural heritage and work together to ensure their continued existence.

Remember, encountering an adder in the wild is a rare privilege. Treat it with respect and awe, knowing that you’ve glimpsed a piece of Britain’s wild magic.

References:

1. Press Release: First study of national adder population trends reveals adders are facing near extinction in Britain1.
2. Woodland Trust - Adder2.
3. Discover Wildlife - Adders at a risk of extinction across Britain3.
4. [The Herpetological Journal - Make the Adder Count: population trends from a citizen science

#Adder

#ViperaBerus

#WildlifeUK

#Conservation

#Biodiversity

#HabitatProtection

#SnakeSpecies

#NatureLovers

#Forestry

#woodlands