Reptiles

Wales has 2 snake species and 3 lizards. All sun-loving creatures, they vary enormously in terms of habits and habitats, looks and likings.

Factfile:

• There are 5 native reptiles in Wales.
• To become active and search for food, all need warmth from the sun to raise their body temperature.
• 2 species – grass snakes and sand lizards – lay eggs.
• The other 3 species - adders, common lizards and slow worms - give birth to live young.
• They eat a wide range of prey: invertebrates (the 3 lizard species); frogs and fish (the grass snake); small mammals and lizards (the adder).