A SNAKE shocked beachgoers after falling from a cliff and swimming through a rockpool at one of Britain’s “most Instagrammable” spots.
With the Easter holidays underway and temperatures rising, Brits are being warned to stay alert as venomous adders — the UK’s only native poisonous snake — start emerging from hibernation.
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One beachgoer was left stunned after seeing one fall from a cliff and start swimming in the sea.
The shocking sight happened at Porth Wen, near Llanbadrig in Anglesey, Wales, when Lewis Perrin Williams saw the snake drop from cliffside undergrowth and land on the rocks.
It then made its way into nearby rockpools before slithering back across the beach.
Lewis said: “I was just standing on the beach when I saw it fall down from the undergrowth overhanging a small cliff.
“That’s how it ended up on the beach – I think he might’ve been a bit sleepy.”
He used a plank of wood to gently guide the adder back to the cliffside vegetation.
Despite being rare, the sight of the venomous reptile has sparked concern online, especially with kids off for the Easter break.
Adders are typically found on moorland, heathland, and open woodland, but they’re also known to swim, usually to escape threats or seek out new territory.
One TikTok user reacted to the footage: “Omg they can swim!?”
The usually shy snakes have triggered a wave of panic from social media users, with many put off visiting the beach altogether.
“Jesus Christ, you’ve just stopped me from exploring,” said one, while another added: “Omg noooo, I’d run, massive that.”
Although most adder bites aren’t dangerous, the NHS advises anyone who is bitten to seek urgent medical attention.
Vets also urge dog owners to be alert, as dogs are especially vulnerable if bitten.
Experts say only about 30% of adder bites result in serious symptoms, but children, older people and pets are most at risk.
On average, adders cause far fewer problems than other wildlife.
Wildlife experts say that adders are more likely to appear in spring, especially after a few days of warm weather.
The reptiles emerge to soak up the sun’s rays, build up energy, and search for mates – meaning sightings could increase during the Easter break.
“Adders are part of our native wildlife and mostly keep to themselves,” said one conservationist.
“They only bite as a last resort, often if stepped on or provoked – so the best advice is to admire from a distance and let them be.”
Authorities are reminding walkers and beachgoers to wear sturdy footwear, keep dogs on leads, and avoid poking around in long grass or rocky crevices where snakes may be hiding.
As the heatwave builds this week, it’s likely more snakes will be spotted sunbathing or exploring.
The Met Office says temperatures could hit 18C in the coming days, with clear skies and warm sunshine expected across large parts of the country.
Met Office meteorologist Kathryn Chalk said: “Temperatures will start warming up as we head through the week. Plenty of blue sky on offer, especially out west.”
Highs of 17C are expected in places like Bristol, Yeovil, Taunton, and parts of Wales and Northern Ireland, while some areas of Scotland could also see mild conditions.
But clear skies mean chilly nights and patchy frost in the mornings.
How dangerous are adders?
- Adders typically grow to about 60-80cm (around 2.5ft) in length.
- Males are usually smaller and slimmer than females.
- Adders carry venom used to immobilise prey. In humans, a bite can cause pain, swelling, nausea or dizziness.
- Serious reactions are rare but possible, especially in young children, the elderly, or those with allergies.
- There have only been 14 recorded deaths from adder bites in the UK since 1876. The last confirmed death was in 1975. Most bites cause minor symptoms and are treatable.
- They’re usually spotted in woodlands, heathlands, moorlands and coastal areas. Common hotspots include Dorset, the New Forest, Cornwall, Cumbria, and parts of Scotland.
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