How can I tell if it's a slow worm or a snake?

Look at the eyes – slow worms have eyelids and can blink, whilst snakes have a fixed transparent scale over their eyes and never blink. If you see it close its eyes, it's definitely a slow worm, not a snake.

Are slow worms dangerous to humans?

No. Slow worms are non-venomous and pose no threat to people. A stressed animal may nip, but the real risk is to the slow worm: handling can injure it or cause it to shed its tail. They also eat slugs, snails and other small invertebrates.

Why do slow worms have no legs if they're lizards?

They're legless lizards – a legitimate evolutionary adaptation where their ancestors essentially decided legs weren't necessary. It's a perfectly valid evolutionary strategy that several lizard species have independently developed.

Meet the Wild Locals

The Slow Worm Legless Question: When a Lizard Looks Like a Snake and Acts Like Neither

Slow worms are legless lizards that blink, give birth to live young, and spend much of their time hidden beneath flat stones, logs and other cover.

8 August 20268 min read