Wildlife Welfare

Wild Adder Welfare and Persecution

The adder is the UK's only venomous snake and is subject to illegal killing and persecution despite being a protected species with conservation value.

Key Facts

Adders are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Deliberate killing, injury, or disturbance of adders is a criminal offence in the UK
Population decline is driven by habitat loss, persecution, and predation from released pheasants
Adder bites cause intense pain but are rarely fatal with appropriate treatment
Adder basking sites are critical for thermoregulation and reproduction

Welfare Considerations

Adder persecution reflects misplaced fear and causes unnecessary suffering and death to a protected species. Education about adder behavior and legal protections, combined with habitat management, supports both conservation and welfare.

What You Can Do

Never disturb or attempt to kill adders - they are legally protected
Report adder persecution to the police Wildlife Crime Officer
Support heathland and grassland conservation that maintains adder habitat