When we think of reptiles, the United Kingdom might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, it is home to many fascinating species that enrich British wildlife. From lizards to snakes, these cold-blooded animals play important roles in our ecosystems.

Here we list the reptiles found in the UK and where you can find them.

Common Lizards

  1. Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara)
    • Description: The common lizard is one of the most widespread reptiles in the UK. These small, quick lizards can change color slightly to blend into their surroundings. Unlike many reptiles, common lizards give birth to live young. This helps them thrive in cooler climates, as the young are born ready to survive.
    • Locations: You can find them in heathlands, grasslands, and woodlands. Notable spots include the New Forest in Hampshire and the Brecon Beacons in Wales.
  2. Slow Worm (Anguis fragilis)
    • Description: Despite its name, the slow worm is a legless lizard, not a worm. Often confused with a snake, it has smooth, shiny scales and likes to bask in the sun. Slow worms can lose their tails to escape predators. Although the tail can regenerate, it will be shorter than the original.
    • Locations: Slow worms are found in gardens, grasslands, and woodlands, especially in southern England. Look for them in places like Epping Forest or the Surrey Hills.
  3. Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis)
    • Description: The sand lizard is the only native UK lizard that lays eggs. It is known for its bright green color, especially during breeding season. During breeding season, sand lizards can be very vibrant green, helping them attract mates.
    • Locations: You can find sand lizards in sandy habitats like heathlands and coastal dunes. Key areas include the dunes at Studland Bay in Dorset and parts of West Sussex.

Snakes

  1. Common Adder (Vipera berus)
    • Description: The common adder is the only venomous snake in the UK. It has a distinctive zigzag pattern on its back and is quite shy, preferring to avoid people. While the bite of a common adder contains venom, it is rarely fatal to humans. Each adder has a unique zigzag pattern, which can vary widely.
    • Locations: Adders live in woodlands, heathlands, and wetlands throughout the UK. You can find them in areas like the North York Moors and Dartmoor.
  2. Grass Snake (Natrix natrix)
    • Description: Grass snakes are the largest native snakes in the UK. They have a yellow or white collar behind their heads and are great swimmers, mainly eating amphibians. Grass snakes are excellent swimmers and can dive underwater to catch their prey, usually frogs and toads.
    • Locations: You can often find grass snakes near ponds and rivers, especially in the Norfolk Broads and along the River Thames.
  3. Smooth Snake (Coronella austriaca)
    • Description: The smooth snake is rare and mostly found in heathland areas. It has a slender body and smooth scales. Smooth snakes have a unique mating ritual called “tail wrestling,” where males entwine their tails to show dominance and attract females.
    • Locations: This snake is mainly seen in heathland regions, particularly in Dorset and Surrey.

Introduced Species

  • Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis): This species is introduced and mainly found in southern England, especially in warmer coastal areas.
  • Tortoises: Some non-native species, like the European tortoise, can be found in captivity or as escaped pets. Both turtles and tortoises belong to the order of reptiles called Testudines.

Conservation and Protection

Many reptile species in the UK face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and human activities. Conservation efforts aim to protect these amazing creatures and their homes. Organizations like Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) work hard to preserve their natural environments and raise awareness.

If you see a reptile in the wild, observe it from a distance and avoid disturbing its habitat. Many species are protected by law, so it’s important to respect their homes to help them survive.

Reptiles are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance in the UK. By learning about and appreciating these unique animals, we can help ensure their survival for future generations. Next time you’re out in nature, keep an eye out for the incredible reptiles that call the UK home!

Download our FREE lesson plans and slides about Extinction and Biomimicry, themes in our stories. We also have a selection of classroom activities on our website.

Remember to visit our social media pages (@RockfordsRockOpera) for more seasonal updates, animal news and nature-related activities to enjoy with your family!