SNAKES IN THE UK SAFETY, IDENTIFICATION & WHAT TO DO
Snakes aren’t common in UK homes, but they are sometimes spotted in gardens, sheds, garages and woodland areas.
Most snakes in the UK are harmless, but knowing what to avoid — and when to call a professional — gives you peace of mind.
The Three Native UK Snakes
Grass Snake (Harmless)
Long, greenish, often with a yellow collar
Common in gardens, ponds, compost heaps
Completely non-venomous
Often plays dead when threatened
Smooth Snake (Rare & Protected)
Very rare, mainly in heathland areas
Grey-brown with faint markings
Non-venomous
Protected species — must NOT be disturbed
Adder (Venomous)
Zig-zag pattern on the back
Usually grey, brown or black
The only venomous snake in the UK
Bites are painful but rarely life-threatening
Medical attention should always be sought
⚠️ What To Do If You See a Snake
Do not touch or try to catch it
Keep children and pets away
Take a photo from a safe distance if you can
If it’s indoors — stay calm, close the door and call us
If bitten by an adder — dial 999 immediately
For protected species like smooth snakes — we advise only
We can advise you on the next steps or attend to remove the snake if lawful and safe.
If a Snake Enters Your Home: Remain calm — this happens rarely.
Do the following:
Close doors to contain the area
Keep pets out
Leave a window or back door open
Call us for advice or removal (legal restrictions apply)
Where Snakes Are Commonly Found
Gardens and long grass
Compost heaps
Warm patios and decking
Sheds, garages and outhouses
Woodland edges
Around ponds and water features
Signs of Snake Activity
Shed skin (paper-thin, dry and long)
Slithering tracks in dusty areas
Sudden movement in long grass
Sightings near warm surfaces or compost heaps
Why Choose Us
✔ Safe, calm and professional advice
✔ Help identifying the species
✔ Humane & legal snake removal where permitted
✔ Family-run, experienced technicians
✔ Fast response across Gloucestershire
Important Legal Note
Some UK snakes are protected.
We will always follow wildlife regulations and provide legal, safe guidance on what can and cannot be done.
What To Do If Your Dog Is Bitten by a Snake
Adder bites in dogs are uncommon but can be serious.
If you think your dog has been bitten:
1. Keep your dog calm and still
Movement spreads venom faster around the body.
2. Carry your dog if possible
Don’t let them walk — it increases circulation.
3. Call a vet immediately
Tell them you suspect an adder bite so they can prepare medication. Most dogs recover fully with fast treatment.
4. Do NOT do any of the following:
✘ Do NOT try to suck out the venom
✘ Do NOT apply a tourniquet
✘ Do NOT place ice on the bite
✘ Do NOT squeeze the wound
These can make things worse.
5. Watch for symptoms such as:
• Swelling around the bite area
• Limping or sudden pain
• Lethargy or collapse
• Pale gums
• Vomiting
Get to a vet even if symptoms seem mild — swelling can develop later.
Contact us today to arrange your pest control services
in Cheltenham, Gloucester, Tewkesbury and the surrounding areas.