Reptiles

Here is the complete list of reptiles in the UK, including native and established non-native species.

Native Reptiles of the UK (6 Species)

1) Adder

UK’s only native venomous snake

Distinct dark zig-zag down the back

Found in heathland, moorland, woodland edges

Widespread but declining in parts

2) Grass snake

Britain’s largest native snake

Yellow/black collar behind head

Strong swimmer; found near ponds and wetlands

Non-venomous

3) Smooth snake

Rare and protected

Restricted mainly to Dorset & Hampshire heathlands

Non-venomous

Often mistaken for an adder

4) Common lizard

Also called the “viviparous lizard”

Gives birth to live young

Widespread across Britain

Found in grassland, heath, moorland

5) Sand lizard

Rare and strictly protected

Males bright green in breeding season

Found in sandy heath and dunes

Mainly southern England

6) Slow worm

Legless lizard (not a snake)

Smooth, shiny body

Common in gardens and grassland

Can shed tail if threatened

Established Non-Native Reptiles in the UK

7) European pond turtle

Possibly native in prehistoric Britain

Small introduced populations

Very rare in the wild

8) Red-eared slider

Released pet turtles

Found in urban ponds and lakes

Do not breed successfully in UK climate

Summary

Total reptile species in the UK: 8

6 native species

2 established non-native species

Quick Breakdown:

Snakes: 3 native

Lizards: 3 native

Turtles: 2 non-native

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Sparrow: A Day in the Life..

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Hedgehogs: A Secret Life..

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Bats: A Day in the Life..

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Peacock Butterfly

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Grass Snake: A Day in the Life..

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European Adder: Vipera berus

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Moorland Ponies

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Marsh Fritillary Butterfly

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Wildlife of Britain

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