Incredible pictures of shy adders spotted in County Durham countryside

Malcolm Wilkinson, 67, volunteers at the Durham Wildlife Trust, and he helps create habitats for rare creatures.

Despite the negative responses a lot of people have for adders, he is fascinated by the creatures and emphasises how “shy” they are.

(Image: Malcolm Wilkinson) (Image: Malcolm Wilkinson) The Durham Wildlife Trust describes the species as “a relatively small, stocky snake that prefers woodland, heathland and moorland habitats”.

The snakes hunt lizards and small mammals, as well as ground-nesting birds, such as skylarks and meadow pipit.

Mr Wilkinson, from Dipton, enjoys spending spring searching for the elusive creatures, knowing if he moves too quickly, they will move away.

(Image: Malcolm Wilkinson) (Image: Malcolm Wilkinson) He said: “Adders are very shy, and if disturbed, they normally move away quickly.

“They are protected by law, and if people are on the moors, they should try to keep their dogs on a lead at this time of year.

“Adders start coming out at the end of January after they have been hibernating.

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“There will be more and more until April and May when they will then spread out.

“Currently, they are just focused on warming up and eating. 

“I love taking pictures, and it is great when I capture a good shot.”