RSPCA rescues venomous snake from Suffolk garden
The adder is Britain's only venomous snake.
The RSPCA was called after a resident in Saxmundham found an adder in their garden last Tuesday, 8th September.
Animal collection officer Paige Burnham was the one tasked with attending the address on Baker's Lane.
She said: "This is the first time I’ve been called out to help an adder so I was really excited to rescue him and see one up close.
"The poor snake had been slithering through two flowerpots stacked on top of each other when he got stuck in the drainage hole.
"Thankfully, I was able to restrain him with a towel and use garden tools to carefully cut the plastic pots so I could free him. I checked him over and, luckily, he hadn’t caused himself any injuries so I released him nearby."
According to the RSPCA, finding an adder in your garden is a rare occurrence as they prefer open habitats such a heathland, moorland and woodland.
While they are venomous, deaths from their bites are rare as their venom is not very potent and one hasn't been reported in Britain for over 20 years.
They can still be very painful though and can become more serious if left untreated.
The RSPCA says anyone who gets bitten should remain as calm and quiet as possible, keep the bitten limb still and seek medical help.
If the person loses consciousness, you need to call an ambulance.
Adder bites can be dangerous for pets though, particularly if they are bitten on the face, so veterinary care should be sought straight away.
Paige continued: "If you come across a snake in your garden or a snake who needs help then we’d encourage finders to keep their distance and to take care,” Paige added.
"We have several different types of snake in the UK and adders are our only venomous snakes so it’s important to give them space if you come across one.
If you see a snake which might need help and you're not sure what species it is, contact the RSPCA's emergency hotline on 0300 1234 999.