Slithering heights

Yorkshire Dales Moorland Group

Apologies to anyone with a snake or lizard phobia but we just had to share these clips and photos with you. As we all know, its not uncommon for some less knowledgeable individuals to say that our managed moors are bereft of diversity. For those of us who work on the grouse moors or visit them regularly we find this baffling. Our moors are havens for wildlife and indeed full of hidden secrets that can surprise us and bring a moment of wonder.

Moorland reptiles are some of these treats to behold from time to time and underline the truth that our managed moors ARE rich in biodiversity. Of course these cryptic creatures aren't frequently encountered. By their very nature they are elusive and sightings can be fleeting. However, our keepers do have chance meetings with reptiles from time to time especially if the weather is favourable and the conditions are right for basking or its the breeding season.

Here we have a selection of reptiles found on the moors of Yorkshire and all pics supplied by our keepers or followers. We hope you like them as much as we do.