Britain's ongoing heatwave has led to a surge in incidents involving snakes, prompting warnings from animal welfare experts. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has reported a notable rise in calls related to snakes during warmer months, with figures showing a significant increase from the previous year.
In 2025, the RSPCA received 1,485 reports concerning snakes, a substantial jump from 980 reports in 2024. Of these, 905 incidents occurred between May and September, aligning with periods of higher temperatures. Evie Button, RSPCA Senior Scientific Officer, stated that snake activity naturally increases as temperatures rise. "Snakes naturally become more active as temperatures increase and they are very skilled escape artists so we're urging owners to take a few extra moments to check enclosures are secure and suitable for their particular species," Button said.
Experts believe that many of these incidents involve pet snakes that have escaped from their enclosures. Some owners reportedly take their reptiles outside to benefit from natural sunlight, which can lead to escapes if enclosures are not properly secured. "Many of the incidents we deal with involve snakes that are believed to have escaped from their owners," Button added.
Types of Snake Incidents
Approximately one-fifth of the reports concerned snakes found loose or stray. Other reports included requests for advice, cases of sick or injured pet snakes, animals that were trapped, and instances of intentional harm. Among the exotic species reported were boas, pythons, royal pythons, corn snakes, king snakes, and rat snakes. The RSPCA also received reports concerning native wild snakes, which are more active during the summer months. These often include grass snakes and adders, which are sometimes mistaken for escaped exotic pets.
Reptile Care Concerns
Button highlighted that exotic pets like snakes often end up in the RSPCA's care when owners realize the commitment involved or the novelty wears off. She emphasized that pet snakes are entirely dependent on their owners for appropriate accommodation, heating, lighting, and diet, which must replicate their natural habitats. "The needs of reptiles can be challenging to meet because they are just the same as they would be in the wild and their welfare depends on providing the right environment conditions," she explained. The RSPCA advises prospective reptile owners to thoroughly research the specific needs of any species they consider keeping. The charity urges individuals to only take on snake ownership if they can fully meet these demanding care requirements.
Adder Encounters
The warnings come in the wake of an incident where a man was bitten by an adder, the UK's only venomous snake, while paddleboarding. Zak Brown was bitten on the ankle after inadvertently stepping on an adder near Cavenham Heath National Nature Reserve. He described the pain as "instant" and "burning," experiencing significant swelling that made it difficult to walk. He received anti-venom treatment in a hospital and was kept overnight for observation. Doctors noted that he was fortunate the snake was a juvenile, as an adult adder's venom could have had more severe effects.
Adders, typically found in heathland, woodland edges, and rough grassland, are characterized by a dark zigzag stripe down their backs. While their bite can be painful, it is rarely life-threatening to healthy adults. They are protected under UK law, and their populations have faced decline due to habitat loss and persecution.