Wildlife

Slow Worm Conservation: Legless Lizard Welfare in Fragmented Habitats

Overview of slow worm welfare, habitat needs, and conservation in gardens and rough grassland.

Key Facts

Slow worms are legless lizards, not snakes, and can live for 30+ years
They are legally protected from killing, injuring, and sale
Slow worms are common in rough grassland, woodland edges, and gardens
They are vulnerable to strimmer accidents and cat predation
Refugia tiles and log piles support slow worm populations in gardens

Welfare Considerations

Slow worm welfare is compromised by garden management practices including strimming and use of slug pellets, as well as cat predation. They are among the most long-lived of small reptiles and local populations are valuable. Simple garden management changes including refugia tiles, log piles, and reduced pesticide use significantly benefit slow worms. Public awareness of their legal protection is important.

What You Can Do

Place refuge tiles or log piles in gardens to support slow worm populations
Check areas for slow worms before strimming or mowing rough grass
Keep cats indoors during warm weather when slow worms are active