Venomous adder spotted on Gower Peninsula golf course

South Wales Argus

a day ago

Adders are the only venomous snake species native to the UK.
They are recognisable due to their "distinctive" zig-zag pattern and "striking" red eyes.
The RSPB added: "Its venom is mainly used for subduing its prey and bites to humans are uncommon but do be sure to keep a respectful distance!
"If you accidentally disturb this timid beauty and get bitten, you will need to seek medical treatment."
Native wild animals in the UK
South Wales residents issued warning after adder spotted on golf course
South Wales residents have been warned to "beware" after an adder was spotted on Pennard Golf Course recently.
Local golfer Ernest Brown was enjoying a round of golf last weekend when he stumbled across the dangerous snake on the 13th green.
He took to the Pennard Ward Community Group on Facebook to warn others, sharing a photo of his discovery.
In his post, Mr Brown wrote: "Golfers & dog walkers beware! On the 13th Green at Pennard Golf Club."
"Golfers and dog walkers beware", an adder has been sighted at the Pennard Golf Course. (Image: Ernest Brown) One person, commenting on the post, said: "I'm not built for running but I bet I would beat Mo Farrah [sic] if I saw that!!"
What to do if you see a snake
If you come across a native British snake (adder, grass snake, or smooth snake) in your garden, or in the wild, the RSPCA says to leave it undisturbed.
If the snake is sick or injured, then you should contact the animal welfare charity.
If you find a non-native species of snake, keep your distance and contact the RSPCA.
Are adders dangerous?
An adder bite can be "painful" and cause inflammation, BBC Countryfile explains.
The wildlife experts added: "But [it] is really only dangerous to the very young, ill or old."
An adder bite can be painful and cause various symptoms, including swelling, bruising, and, in severe cases, vomiting. (Image: Getty Images) Other symptoms of an adder bite can include:
Bruising
Tingling
Nausea
Vomiting
How common are adder bites?
Adders are described as being "very shy", and in most cases, they will hide when they hear people approaching.
BBC Countryfile said: "They tend to bite only when stepped on, or if panicked at close range."
There are around 50 to 100 adder bites reported each year (among humans), according to Amphibian and Reptile Conservation.
An additional 100 dogs are bitten by adders every year.
If you are bitten by an adder, the BBC experts advised seeking immediate medical help as the bites, "though potentially serious, are easily treated".
"And in 70% of cases, there's virtually no reaction beyond stinging and a rash," BBC Countryfile added.
How many people have died from adder bites in the UK?
While not typically life-threatening, there have been 55 fatalities attributed to adder bites in the UK since 1722, according to the Surrey Amphibian and Reptile Group.
The most recent death from an adder bite was recorded in June 1975 in Trussachs, Perthshire (Scotland).
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Where you'll find adders in the UK
While adders usually keep a low profile, they can be found across the UK, even as far north as mainland Scotland, according to the RSPB.
The wildlife charity added: "The best way to spot one is by scouting out south facing areas in early to mid-spring and scanning for a basking snake.
"At this time of year, they'll soak up as much sun as possible, after emerging from a long winter hibernation."