Grass snakes

[Forestknights]

I am getting depressed. I have managed to see plenty of adders and even spotted a smooth snake in the healthland near Corfe Castle.

However i have never seen a Grass snake in the wild. Does anyone know anywhere in sussex where I stand a good chance of spotting one?

[Wild-Woman]

Grass snakes love ponds and water, where there is a good supply of frogs. We've had them in our garden because of our pond and also our compost heap. I would begin by looking closer to home,if you have a pond. Look out for shed skins in long grass as a first sign. Only thing I can suggest. Hope it helps.ww

[pheonix]

Grass snake tend to be harder to see, especially when warm, as they are quick to flee at disturbance (unlike an adder that just stays still). try the ares you know there are snakes early in the morning or in the evening, look in long grass, on banks, by water anywhere asociated with thes snakes really.

Good one on the smoot snake though, have you reported it to a local recorder or anyone else?

[catalaze]

Sussex: yes, go to one of the big river marsh systems on a hot day. Lewes Brooks or Pevensey Levels. Start early. Choose a dyke where you have a good view of the water and walk quietly alongside. Grass Snakes are abundant in both areas and you'll likely come across one either basking in the grass, slipping away from your approach or swimming in one of the dykes.

[nightshade]

I see my grassnake only if I keep still for long enough 30-40 minutes, it hunts in and around the pond in my small suburban garden (main roads both sides!) but disappears at any careless footfalls.A change in my seated position while I took pictures of it catching and eating a large frog sent it moving towards cover