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Warning after hike in adder numbers spotted in north Norfolk woods
An adder at Pretty Corner Woods at Sheringham. Picture: JO JOHNS - Credit: Archant
Dog walkers and parents have been warned to beware of adders after a higher-than-normal number of Britain's only venomous snake have been spotted in north Norfolk.
An adder at Pretty Corner Woods at Sheringham. Picture: JO JOHNS - Credit: Archant
Jo Johns, of Sheringham, regularly walks her dog, Neelix in the area and said she had seen many more adders this year than any time previously.
She said they had almost become a common site in Pretty Corner Woods, just outside the town.
She said: 'I have lived in Sheringham for nearly six years and up to last week had only seen three in Pretty Corner Woods.'
Ms Johns said she had seen four of the snakes over the past week, most of which slithered away when they sensed a human approaching.
A young adder - about 6in - seen on Syderstone Common last week. Picture: NEIL DYSON - Credit: Archant
She said: 'One just sat there, the other three moved off into the undergrowth.
'But I am super wary and looking for them, to protect Neelix. But if you suddenly came across one or trod on one it could bite you, or your dog, etc.
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'I don't know anything about adders, except keep clear of them and watch your dog.
'Dog owners, people with children and others should be careful.'
An young adder spotted at Beeston Regis Common on June 15, having just eaten a meal. Picture: GREGORY KNOWLES - Credit: Archant
In May, we reported on a dog left fighting for its life after being bitten twice by a snake.
Although an adder's venom is not considered life-threatening to a healthy adult, the bite is very painful and requires urgent medical attention.
*Have you spotted any adders in nature so far this year? Email you photos and experiences to stuart.anderson@archant.co.uk
