Wildlife Conservation

Wild Common Lizard and Adder Conservation

Common lizards are the primary prey of adders in many UK habitats. Conservation management that benefits lizards also supports adder populations in a predator-prey ecosystem.

Key Facts

Adders are Britain's only venomous snake and rely heavily on common lizards as prey
Adder populations have declined by approximately 90% in some areas due to habitat loss
Heathland and rough grassland management supporting lizard populations also benefits adders
Illegal persecution of adders including killing and collection for the pet trade remains a threat
Basking sites exposed to morning sun are essential for both adder and lizard thermoregulation

Welfare Considerations

Lizard and adder welfare are ecologically intertwined. Conservation management that creates diverse, structurally complex habitat supports both species while maintaining the predator-prey relationship that sustains healthy populations.

What You Can Do

Support heathland restoration projects that benefit reptile communities
Report illegal adder killing or collection to wildlife crime officers
Create reptile-friendly habitat in gardens including south-facing log piles and rough grassland areas