Adder
Adders, also known as common vipers, are seen frequently on the west Wales coast, where the sandy soils, dunes, coastal heath and generally unimproved nature of the landscape suits them. They are distinctive due to the interlocked dark diamond or zigzag pattern that runs the length of the back, often ending in a spear shape on the neck. Adders are the only British snake to show true sexual dimorphism (physical differences). Males tend to be paler than females, and their markings are usually black against a pale to slate grey background. Females usually have faded black markings against an earthy red/brown background. Females are longer and bulkier than males with lengths of 90cm being recorded; typically, they reach around 65cm though.
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Although venomous, they are very timid and will be far more frightened of you than you are of them, quickly disappearing into the undergrowth if disturbed. Adders mostly feed on small mammals and reptiles such as voles, mice and common lizards, though they also eat fledgling birds and frogs. Of the three species native to Britain, only the adder and grass snake are found in Wales. Grass snakes are egg layers whereas adders are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young. The Smooth snake is also viviparous, but is restricted to a few counties in Southern England.
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