Wildlife Welfare

Wild Adder Welfare and Persecution UK

Adders are the UK's only venomous snake and face welfare pressures from habitat loss, persecution and collection.

Key Facts

Adder populations have declined by an estimated 90% across much of their UK range
Killing of adders despite full legal protection remains widespread from fear and misunderstanding
Adders are essential predators of small mammals and amphibians in heathland ecosystems
Hibernation sites are highly site-faithful and disturbance can cause population failure
Public education programmes are helping reduce persecution through improved understanding

Welfare Considerations

Adder welfare suffers from both habitat loss and direct persecution driven by fear. Legal protection is in place but cultural acceptance of killing adders persists. Education and cultural change are as important as enforcement in improving adder welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Report adder persecution to the RSPB wildlife crime team and local police
Leave adders undisturbed if encountered and educate others about their protected status
Support heathland conservation organisations maintaining adder habitat