Borders primary school issues adder warning
Last updated 14th Jun 2023
A Borders primary school is warning its pupils to BEWARE of venomous snakes!
It follows the sighting of an adder on a nearby walking route this morning (Wednesday).
Tweedbank Primary School shared a photograph of the slithery creature on the Black Path - close to Langlee - to alert parents and their children.
It said: "An adder was spotted on the Black Path this morning. Absolutely beautiful but it is the UK’s only venomous snake.
"Please be wary when out and about and encourage your children and dogs not to play in the long grass.
"If you see one, enjoy the moment but don’t go too close.
"Read the signals it gives: If its head is up its being wary, if it coils it feels threatened."
The normally shy creatures enjoy basking in the sunshine and are often sighted on the hills around Ladhope, in neighbouring Galashiels.
But today's sighting came on a busy path, which runs alongside the Borders Railway and is popular with walkers and cyclists.
According to the Wildlife Trust adders can grow up to 80cm and live up to 15 years.
It adds: "The adder is the UK's only venomous snake, but its venom is generally of little danger to humans. An adder bite can be painful and cause a inflammation, but is really only dangerous to the very young, ill or old. If bitten, medical attention should be sought immediately, however.
"Adders are secretive animals and prefer to slither off into the undergrowth rather than confront and bite humans and domestic animals; most attacks happen when they are trodden on or picked up. Instead, they use their venom to immobilise and kill their prey of small mammals, nestlings and lizards."
Have you had a close encouter with an adder you'd like to share? Email our reporter: ally.mcgilvray@bauermedia.co.uk