Wildlife Welfare

Wild Adder Welfare and Persecution

Adders are the UK's only venomous snake and face welfare threats from deliberate persecution, habitat loss, and fragmentation of populations by roads and development.

Key Facts

Adder populations have declined significantly in many parts of the UK since the 1970s
Deliberate killing by humans who fear them is a significant welfare and conservation threat
Adders bask in exposed locations making them vulnerable to persecution
They are legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Habitat management creating basking sites and refuge areas supports adder populations

Welfare Considerations

Adders face welfare threats from deliberate killing driven by fear, combined with habitat loss reducing population size and connectivity. Legal protection exists but enforcement is difficult, making public education about adder ecology and the safety of coexistence an important welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Never disturb or kill adders - they are legally protected and rarely dangerous if left alone
Report adder persecution to police wildlife crime units
Support heathland and grassland conservation that provides adder habitat