Smooth Snake
FamilyColubridae
Venom TypeNon-venomous
Max Length0.9 m
RangeEurope
HabitatHeathland, Forests
DietLizards, insects
Danger LevelNone
About the Smooth Snake
One of only three native snakes in Britain. Named for their smooth dorsal scales (most snakes have keeled scales). Extremely secretive and rarely seen. Constrict their prey. Give birth to live young. Protected throughout Europe. Their habitat has declined dramatically due to heathland destruction. Often confused with the adder but lack the distinctive zigzag pattern.
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