As the species faces rising threats, canine walkers and different guests can play an important function of their conservation.
With temperatures starting to rise, adders are beginning to wake from their winter slumber.
Cold spells, nonetheless, trigger them to be sluggish, making them notably vulnerable to encounters with curious dogs.
Adders are shy creatures that may keep away from interactions with individuals and dogs the place potential.
However, they could chunk in the event that they really feel threatened and they’re venomous.
Dog homeowners are suggested to take their pet to a vet instantly whether it is bitten.
Staffordshire County Council’s cupboard member for communities and tradition and chair of the Cannock Chase National Landscape Joint Committee, Victoria Wilson, mentioned: “Adders are an iconic species that have suffered a significant decline in recent years and Cannock Chase is one of their remaining strongholds.
“We want to make sure that these amazing animals can continue to thrive here, and that we can enjoy the area safely alongside them.
“Adders are particularly vulnerable as they emerge from hibernation and chilly conditions can make them less able to move out of the way of exploring dogs.
“So, to keep both adders and dogs safe, please keep pets on a lead and on the paths.
“This will also make sure that our pets aren’t disturbing other wildlife, such as ground-nesting birds.”
Dog walkers are suggested to keep away from walking into tall heather, moist swimming pools and marshy areas, the place adders could also be sheltering.
These endangered reptiles additionally wish to delight in sunny patches, so guests are urged to regulate the trail forward when walking.
Adders could be distinguished by darkish zig-zag markings of their backs – though some could be all black.
This nationally protected species is quickly declining throughout many elements of the UK. In many counties, they face native extinction.
Cannock Chase is likely one of the few areas the place adders can nonetheless thrive together with different reptiles comparable to widespread lizards, grass snakes and gradual worms.
Councillor Wilson added: “Adders are an integral part of the rich diversity that makes Cannock Chase so special for all.
“This is why the county council is working hard to support surveys on adders and recovery work across Cannock Chase and the wider county. As part of our Natural Environment Strategy, we aim to have a plan developed for the species on our land by the end of 2025.”
