FAQs about snakes: eggs in compost heap

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Grass snakes may use compost heaps to lay eggs (Lucy Benyon)

WILDLIFE INFORMATION SERVICE

Frequently Asked Questions... about snakes:

I have found eggs in my compost heap, what has laid them?

The only snake in the UK that lays eggs is the grass snake. They seek out piles of rotting vegetation in which to lay their eggs in early summer; here the eggs are protected from predators and keep a good, constant temperature. Garden compost heaps are a viable egg-laying site for grass snakes. Grass snake eggs are small (2-3cm), white and leathery in texture.

If you find eggs, report the sighting to your local Biological Records Centre and your local Amphibian and Reptile Group (ARG); your sightings can help local understanding of where grass snakes occur. Eggs should have hatched by October so avoid turning your compost until this point.

Grass snakes and their eggs are protected by law from killing and injury.

More information:

Identifying reptiles. >>>

Dragons in your Garden. >>>

Find my Local Records Centre. >>>

Find my Local ARG. >>>