FAQs about snakes: encouraging

Grass snakes need places to forage and shelter (Fred Holmes)

WILDLIFE INFORMATION SERVICE

Frequently Asked Questions about... snakes:

How do I encourage snakes into my garden?

Grass snakes and amphibians enjoy similar habitats so try to include varying heights of vegetation, log/stone piles and a compost heap - which can be used by both. Grass snakes feed primarily on amphibians and fish so if you have a pond then this will likely help attract them.

Like all reptiles, snakes need places to bask, forage and hibernate. The types of features mentioned above, that are easily accessible from one another, all increase the chances of grass snakes visiting. If you have suitable habitats and the garden itself is accessible, they will probably appear at some point, though grass snake visits may be fleeting.

You can find more information on maintaining your garden for reptiles by visiting our Dragons in your Garden section.

It is important to report your sightings to help build up local and national records of these declining species. Get in touch with the local Biological Records Centre and you local Amphibian and Reptile Group (ARG) if you have seen reptiles in your garden.

More information:

Identifying reptiles. >>>

Dragons in your Garden. >>>

How do I attract frogs to my garden? >>>

Find my Local Records Centre. >>>

Find my Local ARG. >>>

Widespread Reptile Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP). >>>