Slow Worm (Anguis fragillis)
Slow Worms are actually legless lizards, which are often mistaken for a snake. Unlike snakes they have small eyelids that blink, have visible ears and shed their skin in patches rather than the whole skin as most snakes, and shed their tails as a defence mechanism. They are widespread throughout Britain but are more common in the south and east of England.
Habitat
Slow Worms are found in many places and tend to hide under anything lying on the ground. They like gardens, especially compost heaps where food is plentiful and the rotting vegetation provides a source of heat.
Reproduction
Slow Worms breed around May and June, and the males fight each other for females. The strongest males take hold of the female by gripping her around the head or the neck with their fangs. Females give birth to live young, which take up to 8 years to reach adulthood.
Behaviour
Like Common Lizards, Slow Worms are cold-blooded and need to bask in the sun to reach their optimum body temperature. They are best seen in do this in early morning and evening during spring and autumn, when it’s not too hot. Slow Worms hibernate during the winter and emerge around March
