Invasive Aesculapian Snakes Thrive in UK Homes

The non-native snakes are exploiting human structures for warmth and breeding in several UK regions.

The Aesculapian snake, once extinct in the UK, is now breeding in the wild in at least three regions, including areas around London, South Wales, and North Wales.
Researchers tracked 21 snakes over two active seasons to understand their adaptation to the UK climate, which is typically too cold for them.
The snakes are using anthropogenic structures like attics, wall cavities, and compost heaps for shelter, egg-laying, and thermoregulation.
Male snakes show a preference for buildings, while female snakes tend to seek shelter in woodland areas.
The study highlights the snakes' 'unusual behaviour' compared to native UK snakes, which usually avoid urban environments.