Published in Scotland Magazine Issue 25 on 17/02/2006.

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Snakes alive

Not much can hurt you in Scotland, but the adder can, and as Graham Holliday reports, it’s much maligned as a result

The adder is Scotland’s only poisonous snake. As such it has earned a dubious reputation as a threatening animal. However, adders are very rarely dangerous.

In the last 100 years only 12 people are known to have died from adder bites, whereas several people die every year from insect bites and pet dog attacks. Sadly the stigma and a degree of fear continue to surround this shy serpent.

“The danger from adder bites is greatly exaggerated,” explains Peter Norman, biodiversity officer for Dumfries & Galloway Council who is spearheading a 2006 public awareness campaign for adders in Galloway.

“Bites from adders are rare, and most occur when a snake is picked up. Most reactions to adder bites are painful but not serious, although any bite should be regarded as potentially serious and immediate medical advice should be sought.”

Adders are easy to distinguish because of the distinctive dark zig-zag on its back. At about 65 centimetres in length, the females are 10 centimetres longer than their male counterparts. The males are more brightly marked and the females have orange eyes.

They like to bask on rocks and boulders and on open moorland especially in springtime.

“Adders hibernate between November and March, although there is some variation depending on weather,” says Norman. “The best time to see them is on sunny days just after hibernation in March or April when the sun is weak.

“Adders need to spend many hours basking in order to bring their bodies up to a high enough t.....

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By Graham Holiday

Section : Scottish Wildlife

Page number : 22