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South Wales Guardian
5 days ago
- Science
- South Wales Guardian
Rare venomous black adder spotted in the UK
There are three snake species native to the UK, with the adder being the only venomous one. Adders, which can grow up to 80cm in length, are recognisable due to their "distinctive" zig-zag pattern and "striking" red eyes and can be found across the country. Usually they are "greyish" in colour, The Wildlife Trusts explains. However, Black (melanistic) forms are sometimes spotted in the UK. A walker in Dartmoor experienced a "surreal" moment recently when he stumbled across a "rare" black adder. Posting a picture on the Facebook page Dartmoor Public Group, the person said: "A surreal moment to stumble upon a gorgeous melanistic (black) adder this afternoon. "These are rare, and this is only the second one I've ever seen, but most people have probably not encountered an adder of this colour shade before... so I am lucky to have now seen two up to this date." Adders are the only venomous snake species native to the UK. (Image: Getty Images) An adder bite can be "painful" and cause inflammation, BBC Countryfile explains. The wildlife experts added: "But [it] is really only dangerous to the very young, ill or old." Other symptoms of an adder bite can include: Adders are described as being "very shy" and in most cases they will hide when they hear people approaching. BBC Countryfile said: "They tend to bite only when stepped on, or if panicked at close range." RECOMMENDED READING: How to tell the difference between adders, grass snakes and smooth snakes? Where to find snakes in the UK including the venomous Adder and rare Smooth Snake The 'adaptable' snake that is the UK's longest and can swim underwater 'Shy and incredibly scarce' snake that is rarest in the UK and where to find it While not typically life-threatening, there have been 55 fatalities attributed to adder bites in the UK since 1722, according to the Surrey Amphibian and Reptile Group. The most recent death from an adder bite was recorded in June 1975 in Trussachs, Perthshire (Scotland).
South Wales Argus
5 days ago
- Health
- South Wales Argus
Rare venomous black adder spotted in the UK
There are three snake species native to the UK, with the adder being the only venomous one. Adders, which can grow up to 80cm in length, are recognisable due to their "distinctive" zig-zag pattern and "striking" red eyes and can be found across the country. Usually they are "greyish" in colour, The Wildlife Trusts explains. However, Black (melanistic) forms are sometimes spotted in the UK. Native wild animals in the UK 'Rare' black adder spotted in the UK A walker in Dartmoor experienced a "surreal" moment recently when he stumbled across a "rare" black adder. Posting a picture on the Facebook page Dartmoor Public Group, the person said: "A surreal moment to stumble upon a gorgeous melanistic (black) adder this afternoon. "These are rare, and this is only the second one I've ever seen, but most people have probably not encountered an adder of this colour shade before... so I am lucky to have now seen two up to this date." Adders are the only venomous snake species native to the UK. (Image: Getty Images) Are adders dangerous? An adder bite can be "painful" and cause inflammation, BBC Countryfile explains. The wildlife experts added: "But [it] is really only dangerous to the very young, ill or old." Other symptoms of an adder bite can include: Bruising Tingling Nausea Vomiting Adders are described as being "very shy" and in most cases they will hide when they hear people approaching. BBC Countryfile said: "They tend to bite only when stepped on, or if panicked at close range." RECOMMENDED READING: How many people have died from adder bites in the UK? While not typically life-threatening, there have been 55 fatalities attributed to adder bites in the UK since 1722, according to the Surrey Amphibian and Reptile Group. The most recent death from an adder bite was recorded in June 1975 in Trussachs, Perthshire (Scotland).
Edinburgh Live
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice 'waiting in wings' as King William makes 'shake up'
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice are reportedly "waiting in the wings" as Prince William is set to "shake up" the monarchy, much like his father, King Charles. The Prince of Wales is thought to favour a more streamlined monarchy, with recent reports indicating that he's keen to keep a tight rein on Royal expenditure. This could potentially lead to a reduction in the number of working royals. Since taking the throne, the King has relied on his younger siblings - Princess Anne, Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh - to step in when required. However, the future shape of the monarchy under 42 year old William seems less clear-cut. His brother, Prince Harry, stepped down from his role as a working Royal to move to Montecito, California, with Meghan and their two children, according to Yorkshire Live. READ MORE -BBC Countryfile's Adam Henson makes poignant remark as he leaves farm with wife READ MORE -Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen's major life change after terrifying Netflix ordeal This has fuelled rumours that William might turn to his cousins for support when he becomes king. This could see the York sisters shouldering more responsibilities, says Royal author Ingrid Stewart. Speaking to New Day magazine, she said: "They're valuable assets and I'm certain they'll get involved with royal duties when William becomes king. I'm sure they would like to do more and they're waiting in the wings to be asked.", reports the Mirror. Richard Eden of The Daily Mail recently suggested that William is beginning to appreciate the worth of his cousins. His late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, was also fond of leaning on her grandchildren for support. Eden remarked: "From what I'm hearing, Prince William is starting to see the value of his cousins and what, in the long term, they could give. Obviously we had Queen Elizabeth who was supported throughout her reign by her cousins, such as the Duke of Kent, Duke of Gloucester, and the ones I'm writing about this week are Princess Beatrice and Eugenie. "They're doing more and more. They're private duties really, in terms of charity work, but I think Prince William and his father are noticing this and appreciating it." (Image: Getty Images) (Image: (Image: GETTY)) (Image: Chris Jackson, Getty Images) The York sisters, adept at carrying out Royal duties, have been seen attending garden parties at Buckingham Palace—events usually under the patronage of the Prince of Wales. Eden suggested: "So I think we should expect some future announcements. It's an exciting time for them." Rumours suggest that Zara Tindall, daughter of Princess Anne, might become increasingly involved in official Royal duties. Zara, who appears to share a close bond with the King, was publicly photographed embracing His Majesty just last year. According to Richard Eden, William seems keen on positioning his wife Kate Middleton and their children, Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 10, and seven year old Louis, as central figures within the Royal family. In a conversation on the Palace Confidential podcast, he commented: "Prince William, like his father, has always favoured slimmed-down monarchy as the future and what that looks like being now is just William and Catherine and their children. But, how on earth could they justify all the wealth and palaces for that one nuclear family?".
Daily Record
09-06-2025
- Daily Record
Picturesque Scottish town is perfect for stargazing and exploring stunning nature trails
Just over an hour from Glasgow, Moffat is near one of the UK's highest and most stunning waterfalls With summer fast approaching, it's the perfect excuse to get out and explore the wild beauty right on Scotland's doorstep, and you don't have to trek to the Highlands or hop on a ferry to find it. Located just over an hour from Glasgow, the picturesque town of Moffat in Dumfries and Galloway is quietly stealing the spotlight as a must-visit destination for lovers of nature, history, and a bit of stargazing, Glasgow Live reports. Scotland's first official 'Walkers are Welcome' town, Moffat is more than just a pretty stopover. It offers the perfect base to experience Grey Mare's Tail, a breathtaking natural landmark that was recently celebrated by BBC Countryfile as one of the top walking routes in the UK. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, the Grey Mare's Tail Nature Reserve lies at the edge of the Southern Uplands and delivers everything from dramatic landscapes and plunging waterfalls to remote lochs and roaming wildlife. The waterfall itself is a showstopper, tumbling over 200 feet from Loch Skeen into the Moffat Water Valley, it ranks among the tallest and most dramatic in the UK. According to BBC Countryfile, the walking path is 'easy to follow from the car park 200m up the side of the Grey Mare's Tail waterfall to Loch Skeen at 500m,' and is an ideal route for those hoping to enjoy the scenery in peace. As they put it, 'you might have it all to yourself' during the colder months. But walkers are urged to tread with care. The magazine adds: 'Check the forecast before setting out and take care on the path,' highlighting the narrow sections with 'precipitous drops.' Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads, as the hillsides are grazed by sheep and feral goats. After a day spent soaking up the views, Moffat itself has plenty to offer. The town is known for its own famous sweet treat — the legendary Moffat Toffee, which you can still pick up at the much-loved Moffat Toffee Shop. Brimming with independent shops and cafes, Moffat also has plenty to keep families entertained, including Station Park, which boasts a boating pond and children's playground. Another highlight is the Moffat Distillery, where visitors can relax in the on-site cafe and bar, sample their unique wood-fired spirits, or browse the shop for a bottle to take home. If you're keen to explore Moffat's rich past, the newly refurbished museum is a hidden gem, offering a fascinating look at the area's history. As for places to stay, Moffat does not disappoint. The Penthouse at St Mary's Church is one of Sykes Cottages' most sought-after properties and it's easy to see why, with its stunning views and character-filled interiors. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Those after something a bit more rustic can book a stay at Strathannan, a charming country cottage just outside the town, or opt for something truly luxurious like a spacious mansion house with elegant period features, available through Holiday Cottages. And for something entirely different, there's a handcrafted double shepherd's hut complete with its very own hot tub, perfect for a cosy romantic retreat under the stars. Moffat is also Europe's first Dark Sky Town, making it one of the best spots in the country for stargazing when skies are clear. Whether you're after a scenic ramble, a peaceful night under the stars or a taste of local flavour, this charming Borders town has all the makings of a perfect summer getaway.
Western Telegraph
06-06-2025
- Science
- Western Telegraph
Spiny Dogfish: 75-year-old shark living in shallow UK waters
You may think that stumbling across a shark when taking a trip to the beach is rare with most species spending their time further out to sea. However, there are some sharks that can be found in shallow waters near the UK shoreline, like the Small Spotted Catshark and Spiny Dogfish. Native wild animals in the UK One of the longest-living sharks lurking in shallow waters in the UK Spiny Dogfish, also known as Spurdog Sharks, are one of the most common sharks in the UK, according to BBC Countryfile. This is despite a decline in population over recent years, caused by overfishing. They are also one of the longest-living shark species, with a lifespan of up to 75 years, Wildlife Trusts adds. Spiny Dogfish can live for up to 75 years. (Image: Getty Images) How to spot a Spiny Dogfish Spiny Dogfish can grow up to 1.6 metres in length and weigh 9.1kg. The shark can be distinguished by its pointed snout, large eyes, and spines in front of its dorsal fins, Wildlife Trusts said. The wildlife experts added: "Its streamlined body is a grey/brown colour on top with a lighter belly and rows of white spots down its sides." Are Spiny Dogfish dangerous? Spiny Dogfish, aka Spurdog Sharks, live off a diet of fish, squid, jellyfish and crustations, according to BBC Countryfile. They are also known to sometimes feed on smaller sharks. But Spiny Dogfish are considered "harmless" to humans, Oceana added. RECOMMENDED READING: Where you'll find Spiny Dogfish in the UK Spiny Dogfish are a migratory species that spend the winter months in deep waters, before making their way to shallow coastal waters in the summer. They are most commonly found, according to Wildlife Trusts, in: The Irish Sea Northeast Atlantic You will also find Spurdog Sharks in "temperate waters" around the world.
