A snake was recently spotted at a popular walking spot during a peak time for dog bites.

The adder was spotted slithering at Scout Scar in Kendal.

There are three species of snake native to the UK - the grass snake, adder and smooth snake.

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Data contained in Cumbria Biodiversity Evidence Base show that it is mostly grass snakes that are confined to south Cumbria and the coastal strip.

According to Cumbria Wildlife Trust, adders can be spotted basking in the sunshine however are sometimes found in woodland glades and on heathlands.

The smooth snake is a very rare sighting however and can only be found at a few heathland sites in the UK.

Here's how to tell the difference between them:

Grass snake

  • Yellow and black collar, pale belly, and dark markings down the side

The UK's largest snake is fond of wetland habitats but can be found in dry grasslands and in gardens - especially those with a pond nearby - or swimming in water.

They hunt amphibians, fish, small mammals and birds and when threatened, the grass snake often 'plays dead.'

They may strike with the head however they tend not to bite and are harmless to humans.

They do release a foul-smelling substance from their anal gland and tend to hiss.

Smooth snake

  • Similar to the adder, the smooth snake can be distinguished by its more slender body, round pupils and less well-formed dark pattern on its back. It is usually grey or dark brown in colour.

The rare smooth snake can only be found in a few places in UK and are not typically sighted in Cumbria. 

They hibernate from October to April and tend to give birth in September.

As a constrictor snake, it coils around its prey such as lizards, slow-worms, insects and nestlings but it harmless to humans or pets.

Adder

  • Dark zigzagging line down their back against a grey (male) or light brown (female) body. ‘V’ or ‘X’ shaped marking on the head

The adder is the UK's only venomous snake but its poison is generally of little danger to humans though can be painful and cause nasty inflammation.

There is a possibility the very young, ill or old may be more affected so if bitten, still seek medical advice immediately.

Adders are secretive animals and prefer to slither off into the undergrowth however rather than confront humans or pets.

Most attacks happen when they are trodden on or picked up however they can be very dangerous to overly-inquisitive domestic animals.

(Image: Harry Broomby) What do if your dog or cat is bitten by an adder

According to leading veterinary charity, PDSA, (The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals) Adder dog bites tend to happen from February to October but are especially common between June and August.

It advises to seek immediate medical attention to prevent the venom reaching the pet's vital organs.

According to the PDSA website: 

  • Stay calm . If you see the snake, try to remember what it looks like, or take a photo from a distance. Do not try to find it, get close or touch it. Adders are a protected species so it is illegal to hurt or kill them.

  • Keep your dog as still as possible to prevent venom spreading around their body

  • Leave the bite alone, don't apply a bandage or tourniquet.

  • Call your vet to let them know you are coming down to the practice

  • If possible, bring a car to your dog or depending on their weight, carry them to it.