Britain’s Summer Heatwave Triggers Snake Safety Alert as Warm Weather Drives Rise in Incidents

As temperatures continue to climb across Britain, most people are preparing for the usual summer concerns such as dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion. However, wildlife experts are warning that warmer weather may also bring an unexpected seasonal risk: increased snake activity.

New figures from the RSPCA show that reports involving snakes rise significantly during the warmer months, with more incidents recorded between late spring and early autumn. The charity has urged pet owners and the public to take extra care as heatwaves create conditions that encourage snakes to become more active.

According to the RSPCA, the organisation received 1,485 snake-related reports in 2025. Of these, 905 incidents occurred between May and September, the period when temperatures are typically higher and reptiles become more active.

The figures represent a noticeable increase compared with previous years. In 2024, the charity recorded 980 snake-related reports, highlighting a growing need for awareness around snake welfare, responsible ownership, and encounters with wild species.

Why Hot Weather Increases Snake Activity

Snakes are cold-blooded reptiles, meaning they rely on external temperatures to regulate their body heat. During warmer periods, they become more energetic, move around more frequently, and spend more time searching for food, shelter, and suitable temperatures.

Evie Button, Senior Scientific Officer at the RSPCA, explained that snake incidents are consistently higher during warmer months because rising temperatures naturally increase reptile activity.

The charity has particularly warned owners of pet snakes to check that their enclosures are secure. Hot weather can make snakes stronger and faster, increasing the chances of escape if their housing is unsuitable or poorly maintained.

Many incidents handled by the RSPCA involve snakes believed to have escaped from private owners. Some reptiles are found outside homes, in gardens, or in public areas after getting loose from their enclosures.

Pet Snake Escapes During Summer Months

One of the main reasons for increased snake escapes during summer is the practice of taking pet reptiles outdoors to benefit from natural sunlight.

While exposure to sunlight can be beneficial for some reptiles when managed correctly, the RSPCA warns that snakes can quickly become difficult to control if they are not properly secured. A snake that becomes warm in direct sunlight may move faster than expected and find opportunities to escape.

The charity advises owners to ensure that outdoor handling is carried out safely and that snakes are kept in suitable environments designed around their specific needs.

Keeping a snake as a pet requires careful planning. Unlike traditional pets, reptiles need highly controlled conditions, including appropriate heating, lighting, humidity, diet, and enclosure design.

The RSPCA has encouraged anyone considering owning a snake to research the requirements of the species before making a decision. Some exotic snakes can live for many years and require specialist care throughout their lives.

Wild Snakes Also Become More Visible

The summer warning does not only apply to pet snakes. Britain’s native snake species also become more noticeable during warm weather because they are naturally more active.

The RSPCA receives reports from members of the public who discover wild snakes and sometimes mistake them for escaped exotic pets.

Common native species reported during the summer include grass snakes and adders. These animals may appear in gardens, countryside areas, woodland edges, and grasslands as they search for warmth and food.

Experts say that most snakes are not aggressive and will usually avoid humans whenever possible. Problems often occur when snakes feel threatened, are handled, or are accidentally stepped on.

Adder Encounters Highlight Summer Risks

The warning follows a recent case involving a man who experienced a painful encounter with Britain’s only venomous snake, the adder.

Zak Brown, a 39-year-old father from Suffolk, was paddleboarding at Cavenham Heath National Nature Reserve when he stopped near the riverbank. While stepping onto the grass, he accidentally disturbed an adder.

The snake bit his ankle, causing immediate pain and swelling. Brown described the sensation as a sharp, burning pain and later required hospital treatment.

Doctors treated him with anti-venom and kept him under observation overnight. His leg became severely swollen, making it difficult for him to walk.

Although adder bites can be painful and frightening, they are rarely life-threatening for healthy adults. However, medical attention should always be sought after a suspected venomous snake bite.

Understanding Britain’s Only Venomous Snake

The adder is the only venomous snake species naturally found in the United Kingdom. These snakes are usually recognised by a dark zigzag pattern running along their backs.

Male adders are often grey with a black zigzag marking, while females are generally brown with darker patterns.

Adders can be found in areas such as:

• Heathlands
• Woodland edges
• Moorlands
• Sand dunes
• Rough grass areas

They often spend time basking in sunlight to regulate their body temperature.

Although adders have venom, they are generally shy creatures. They normally retreat when disturbed and usually bite only when they feel threatened or when they are accidentally stepped on.

Adders are also protected under UK wildlife laws. It is illegal to intentionally harm or kill them, as populations have declined in some areas due to habitat loss and human disturbance.

How to Stay Safe Around Snakes This Summer

During periods of hot weather, experts recommend taking simple precautions:

• Avoid disturbing snakes if you see one in the wild.
• Keep dogs under control in areas where snakes may be present.
• Wear suitable footwear when walking through long grass or woodland areas.
• Do not attempt to handle wild snakes.
• Ensure pet snake enclosures are secure and suitable.
• Seek medical help after a suspected adder bite.

For snake owners, responsible care is essential. A suitable enclosure, correct temperature control, and regular safety checks can help prevent escapes and protect both the animal and the public.

Final Thoughts

Britain’s summer heatwaves bring many challenges, and increased snake activity is another factor people should be aware of. While snake encounters remain relatively uncommon, warmer temperatures can make both wild and pet snakes more active.

Understanding snake behaviour and respecting these reptiles can help prevent unnecessary incidents. Snakes play an important role in the natural environment, and with proper awareness, humans and wildlife can safely share outdoor spaces during the summer months.

Sources

• Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) reports on snake incidents and reptile welfare guidance.
• UK wildlife information on adders and native snake species.
• Wildlife conservation guidance regarding protected reptile species in Britain.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for general information purposes only. It does not replace professional veterinary advice, medical guidance, or official wildlife recommendations. If you encounter a snake or experience a suspected snake bite, contact appropriate experts or emergency services for advice.