An intriguing and often misunderstood creature due to its serpentine appearance. Despite its common names, ‘deaf adder’ or ‘blindworm,’ it is neither a worm nor a snake but a legless lizard that can be found across Eurasia, from the United Kingdom to the Far East of Russia.
Unlike snakes, slow worms have eyelids that they can close, and their eyes have a more lidded appearance. They have smooth, shiny scales and a distinct V or X-shaped marking on the head. Their overall coloration varies from golden-brown to grey, often with a metallic sheen, and males and females can be distinguished by their coloration; males typically have uniform coloring, while females may exhibit a dark dorsal stripe or a row of dark spots on the sides.
The slow worm’s body is elongated, and it possesses a short tail that, like other lizards, can be autotomized — meaning it can be shed as a defensive tactic when grasped by a predator. A unique feature of slow worms is their ability to regenerate this lost tail, although it never fully regains its original length or color.
One of the most distinct features of the slow worm is the presence of a dark, sometimes zig-zagging dorsal stripe, which serves as a key identification characteristic and distinguishes it from snakes and other adders. This pattern can be especially pronounced in females and juveniles.
In terms of habitat, slow worms are versatile and can thrive in various environments such as heathlands, tussocky grasslands, woodlands, and even gardens, provided they have ample cover and basking spots. They are ectothermic, relying on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature, which is why they are often found sunbathing on warm surfaces.
Distribution
Albania
Andorra
Austria
Belgium
Bosnia And Herz.
Bulgaria
Croatia
Czechia
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Italy
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Moldova
Montenegro
Netherlands
North Macedonia
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russia
Serbia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
United KingdomAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
