Wildlife

Wild Smooth Snake Conservation in Lowland Heathland

The smooth snake is Britain's rarest reptile, restricted to lowland heath in southern England. Its welfare and survival depend entirely on the conservation of heathland habitat.

Key Facts

Smooth snakes are confined to a few heathland sites in Dorset, Hampshire and Surrey
They are viviparous - giving birth to live young unlike grass snakes
Heathland loss reduced their range by over 80% during the 20th century
Predation by pheasants released near heathlands is a significant welfare concern

Welfare Considerations

Smooth snake welfare is critically dependent on heathland habitat quality and management. Rotational cutting and grazing maintain the habitat mosaic they require. Buffer zones preventing game bird releases near populations are important.

What You Can Do

Support Dorset Wildlife Trust and Hampshire Wildlife Trust heathland restoration
Oppose game bird releases near smooth snake heathland sites
Join volunteer heathland management work parties