Snakes in Wirral

katter0395 · #1 (**permalink**) 02-07-2011, 10:39 PM

Does anyone know if there are snakes in Wirral? I have had conflicting reports from both the Rangers and research. Can anyone enlighten me? I know these locations and reports are often secret. Anyone with information can PM me.

fairplay · #2 (**permalink**) 03-07-2011, 08:32 AM

Hello Katter and welcome to the WAB forums,

I'd imagine you are maybe a school leaver or in the early 20's ? If so, it would pay to join your local wildlife trust and establish yourself as someone with genuine wildlife concerns, otherwise people might think you are just out to find snakes and keep at home.

Once your face becomes familiar, you will find people of a similar persuasion willing to exchange all sorts of little snippets with you.

Googling 'Wirral' brought up plenty of golf courses, so there should be grass snakes in the damper areas, but avoid trespassing though.

Neil.

katter0395 · #3 (**permalink**) 03-07-2011, 08:41 PM

my only intention is to photograph them.

katter0395 · #4 (**permalink**) 04-07-2011, 10:29 PM

I not in my 20s or a student. I have a good knowledge of wildlife and do not disturb or interfere with habitats. I asked a simple question. I dont want a lecture!

david sanderson · #5 (**permalink**) 05-03-2012, 05:38 PM

Hi. I live on the Wirral and have spent nearly a year making daily trips to hunt for snakes. I've only found Common Lizards so far. There are a number of historical and anecdotal records but I'm far from convinced that there are still any snakes left on the Wirral. I've had rangers tell me there are and I've also been to a number of areas that are perfect habitats for Adders but no evidence found so far. Let me know if you've had any joy.

JaySteel · #6 (**permalink**) 05-03-2012, 07:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by katter0395

I asked a simple question. I dont want a lecture!

I remember posting almost the same question about five years ago and I was very disappointed with the lack of helpful advice from people other than to join my local amphibian & reptile group. That turned out to be the best advice that I could've been given. I now monitor a couple of adder sites and my knowledge on the subject has grown hugely. Plus I've got plenty of great shots too!
But now I find myself very protective over the snakes and I'm also very very reluctant to share any details with people unless I'm absolutely certain that they have the snake's best interests at heart. It may seem like those with the knowledge are being selfish but their actually being responsible.
I was once told by someone who I previously thought I could trust that they "could get me good money for a melanistic adder"!

So as much as Fairplay's reply to your question might seem like a lecture it is in fact very good advice.

Jason

Uv moth notingha · #7 (**permalink**) 05-03-2012, 07:33 PM

There are plenty of adders in the pennines yorkshire moors , have almost steppped on a couple whilst on holiday ! I do not know of any urban adders , and if I did would not give away precise locations . However , I have seen grass snakes swiming in my local canal here in suburban nottinghamshire .

Sorry to be of little use .
UVMOTH