The smooth snake is a harmless reptile found across Europe, but in the UK it only exists in the South. They are grey-brown in colour with a series of black spots running in pairs down their back and sides. Sometimes these spots merge together towards the neck forming black lines or bars. A heart shaped mark crowns their head and dark bands run from their nostrils, down across their eyes, ending at the neck. On average Smooth Snakes are smaller than other British species, usually growing to around 50cm in length. Unlike Britain’s other snakes, it has scales that are flat and smooth.
Overview
The Smooth Snake is our rarest reptile, restricted to a few areas of heathland in Southern England. It requires mature vegetation to provide it with enough cover to remain camouflaged while it basks in the sun. This camouflage also makes it a successful hunter. The snake uses its speed to capture prey such as lizards and small mammals. Without venom to subdue their prey, they use constriction to crush them into submission before swallowing them whole.
Like other snakes, the Smooth Snake hibernates throughout the winter, usually emerging in early Spring. Males start to pursue the females at this point and can be seen fighting for their favour. Winners will mate and live young are usually born around September time with females producing up to fifteen young.
In The Garden
Unfortunately, you are unlikely to see this snake in your garden, unless you live close to southern heathlands, when males may roam through gardens in search of a mate. If you are able to get to areas where populations exist, mid-Spring is the best time. However, remember that these snakes are very rare and protected in this country, so always be careful not to disturb their habitat.
