Adders in Cornwall

Cornwall is a national stronghold for the species, which is internationally protected - we're very lucky to have it. Its favourite habitats are heaths, dunes, coastal paths and other paths with wild edges. Whenever you walk in those places, adders are fleeing from you in all directions - humans are much more dangerous to adders than adders are to us. Although an adder bite is very unpleasant, it is extremely unlikely to kill you. You have much more chance of being killed by a wasp sting, lightning or someone's pet dog. The last fatality in Britain happened in 1975.

Advice for adder avoidance is to keep to the paths, where adders can easily see and be seen, rather than walk through vegetation, where you are likely to catch them by surprise. Walking heavily will also give adders greater warning of your approach. In the event of a bite, people should stay calm but seek immediate hospital treatment.

Dog owners are advised to keep their pets close - or ideally on a lead - in heath and dune areas. Dogs will otherwise tend to invade the adders' habitat and sniff out the creatures. Signs of swelling, particularly on the face, should be reported immediately to a vet - with treatment, bites are rarely fatal.

Conservationists and land managers in Cornwall, working together through the Cornwall Biodiversity Initiative, have identified the adder as a priority species for action if the county's unique wealth of wildlife is to be preserved. Their action plan for the adder involves correcting public misconceptions as well as protecting the species' habitats.

These little snakes don't "attack" people or dogs - they only defend themselves when cornered. They have been part of this area's special web of life for thousands of years and we should all learn to live with them.

Snakes and stuff .. Introduction CRAG Reptiles Amphibians Adders Grass snakes As pets Send your records SEARCH . . . . . . . . .