Understand
Adders tracked with GPS in Devon to protect the UK's native venomous snake
Overview
Conservationists at Haldon Forest in Devon are using GPS trackers and micro radio tags on adders to study their habitats and support the recovery of the protected species. The research, which began in spring 2025 and is planned for three years, aims to help manage habitats and counteract a 40% decline in adders across the UK. Meanwhile, a separate project in Cornwall is examining how natural and human-made barriers isolate adder populations.
Key points
- Adders at Haldon Forest in Devon are being monitored using GPS trackers and micro radio tags taped to their tails.
- The three-year research project began in spring 2025 to understand adder habitats and aid long-term population recovery.
- The UK has seen a 40% decline in adders, making targeted habitat management crucial.
- A separate project in Cornwall by charity Froglife is exploring how natural and human-made barriers isolate adder populations.
- Researchers found the radio tags did not impact the snakes' natural behaviours, including mating, breeding, and feeding.