Nature Fact

The Adder’s year has two stages and takes place in two habitats.  The timing of each stage is variable and depends on local weather conditions.  From about late September, Adders are inactive, living in underground retreats.   By the end of October or when temperatures fall below nine degrees centigrade, it is unusual to find an Adder above ground.  During the Winter, they make use, often communally, of existing burrows, cracks and crevices, particularly under or among tree roots.  There are two reasons, for sharing a Winter den.  Firstly, there is usually a scarcity of secure, safe sites which give protection from frost, but do not become too dry; secondly, many snakes coiled together help to keep each other warm.