FAQs about snakes: in the garden

Grass snake visits are often fleeting (Barry Kemp)

WILDLIFE INFORMATION SERVICE

Frequently Asked Questions about... snakes:

I have grass snakes in my garden, do I need to do anything for them?

Firstly, note down the areas they are commonly seen in; these might be near compost heaps, among log piles or in/near the pond. Once you've identified these areas you need to ensure that you continue to maintain them as they are. If these features disappear so might the snakes. You can find more information on maintaining your garden for reptiles by visiting our Dragons in your Garden section.

Grass snakes, like all reptiles, need places to bask, places to forage for food and places to shelter and hibernate in. They can often be found on/in compost heaps or in log or stone piles. They primarily feed on amphibians and fish so are commonly seen in or around ponds.

Grass snake visits are often fleeting but maintaining the right kind of habitats can encourage them to return.

It's important to report your sightings to help build up local and national records of these declining species. Get in touch with your local Biological Records Centre and your local Amphibian and Reptile Group (ARG).

More information:

Identifying reptiles. >>>

Dragons in your Garden. >>>

Find my Local Records Centre. >>>

Find my Local ARG. >>>