Is it OK to pick up a slow worm?

Is it OK to pick up a slow worm?

It's fine to lift up objects to look for slow worms, but Mark cautions, 'If you do spot a slow worm hiding under a metal sheet, rock, tile or log, be sure to replace it carefully or you could easily squash them.

Why is a slow worm not a snake?

The slow worm is neither a worm nor a snake, but is, in fact, a legless lizard - its identity is given away by its abilities to shed its tail and blink with its eyelids.

Where are slow worms found in the UK?

Although found throughout mainland Britain, they are most common in Wales and south-west England. They are absent from Ireland. Slow worms like humid conditions and emerge from their hiding places at dusk or after rain to hunt for food. They spend the winter hibernating under piles of leaves or within tree roots.

What attracts slow worm?

Slow worms are also attracted to compost heaps because of their warmth but another way to create warm spots for reptiles to bask on (or under) is to put out corrugated roofing sheets or slates.Sep 24, 2015