British Snakes Explained: How to Identify Adders, Grass Snakes and Smooth Snakes

Learn how to identify Britain’s native snakes and the slow worm in this simple wildlife guide. In this video, we look at the UK’s main snake species: the adder, grass snake, and smooth snake, plus the slow worm, which is often mistaken for a snake but is actually a legless lizard. You’ll learn the key differences, including the adder’s dark zigzag pattern, the grass snake’s yellow collar, the smooth snake’s subtle markings, and the slow worm’s smooth shiny body. The most important message is safety. Keep your distance from all wild snakes and slow worms, never touch or handle them, and keep dogs safely away. The adder is Britain’s only venomous snake, so if a person or dog is bitten by an adder, seek medical or veterinary help immediately. This video is ideal for dog walkers, families, gardeners, countryside walkers, and anyone interested in British wildlife. Respect wildlife. Keep dogs safe. Learn more with Riker’s. #BritishSnakes #UKWildlife #Adder #GrassSnake #SlowWorm #DogSafety #WildlifeEducation