Reptiles and Amphibians

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Reptiles and Amphibians

Arran has been an island for longer than the British mainland, and the absence of a number of species from the local fauna reflects this. Grass snakes are one such notable absence, and frogs and newts are likely to be relatively recent introductions. However, the mild climate favours cold blooded creatures, and some species, such as the adder, have flourished in a habitat lacking in competitive predators such as foxes, stoats and weasels.

Moorland habitats are particularly important for reptiles and amphibians, with ample upland bog and lochains for common toads, and an abundance of field voles and insect prey for adders. On warm summer days common lizards and adders can be found basking in the sun in south facing glens such as Glen Rosa.

Common Toad

Common Toad by Lucy Wallace

Description

Green-brown amphibian with a warty appearance to the skin. They range in size from 8-13cm and the females are generally larger. The skin contains glands that secrete a toxic substance that deters most predators.

Diet: Invertebrates such as inspects, spiders, earthworms, caterpillars and snails.

Habitat: Adults spend most of their time on land but females return to water to breed. Common in a variety of habitats especially Farmland and Moorland.

When: Emerge from hibernation in spring and return to breeding grounds. Particularly active when mating and after rain or at night. Tadpoles metamorphose in to toadlets in high summer and emerge after heavy rain.

Common lizard

Common Lizard by Zabdi Keen

Description

Mottled brown lizard about 15cm long. It often has dark and pale stripes running the length of its body. Males have colourful underbellies, whilst females are more neutral in colour. Common lizards are able to shed their tails to escape predators.

Diet: Invertebrates such as inspects, spiders, earthworms, caterpillars and snails.

Were: Common in sunny aspects in a variety of locations especially Farmland and Moorland.

When: Emerge from hibernation in March. Active on warm sunny days.

Common Adder

Description

The only venomous snake in Britain, the adder has a zigzag pattern on its back and an X or V mark on the head. Males are olive/black and females tan/black. A completely black form also exists. Average length is about 50-60cm long. Although poisonous, bites of humans are unusual and usually occur in self defence. The bite is painful, but rarely fatal, however, medical attention should be sought immediately. Please take care in long vegetation and never pick up or approach an adder.

Diet: Small mammals, insects and birds.

Where: Common in Moorland areas.

When: Emerge from hibernation in early spring, mating takes place in April/May, particularly active on sunny spring and summer days.