Dance of Adders

While drawing/observing/filming the 'dance' of two Adders they were so intent that they spilled onto my lap. Adders are very shy and completely non-aggressive. They will only bite if under duress. This encounter was a privilege I shall not forget.
Please note that I didnt intend to handle them, it wasn't meant to be a physical encounter. Not only for safety but for the welfare of the Adders. It does demonstrate, I hope that Adders are not naturally aggressive, contrary to popular thinking. They are shy and even in combat with one another do not bite. They are wonderful creatures to observe and as long as you make no sudden movements you can often watch them from several metres off or if you are nervous about them or about disturbing them, use binoculars from slightly further off.

[pirtekguy]

When you understand a creature you can appreciate it soo much more .

[johnrichardson]

I've been surveying adders for over 20 years, this is just wonderful footage, what a privilege to have these stunning snakes actually on you, your face at the end says it all👍

[davidlancaster]

Beautiful creatures, thank you for sharing.

[matthewcorcoran]

Amazing video 👍 You did well to stay so calm. They do look like nice, gentle creatures and it demonstrates that they aren’t looking to bite someone. I have to admit I got a bit concerned when one glided close to your fly. Lucky you weren’t flying low 😂

[rd]

There was another Steve who spent his time annoying wild animals🐊, , it didn't go well for him.

Cool vid👍

[billycasper]

That's a dream come true funking amazing 👍👍👍

[sharonrigs]

Im just glad that they didn't seek combat with your trouser snake when slithering across

[christopherhulse]

The snakes enjoyed your company and trusted you.

[Nirky]

Luck guy to have such an incredible experience!

[IamBule]

What an excellent piece of footage of these wonderful creatures highlighting the fact that they aren't looking to bite every human or dog that gets near to them but only as a means of defence with accidental stepping on them or stupidly handling them. I have to ask where they still young snakes or are fully mature ones that thin as I've never had the pleasure of seeing one but imagined them being thicker.

[BadlandBrawl-hz]

In a and e... a snake bit my todger! Get rid of the pain but can I keep the swelling 😂

[kevin]

thanks for sharing the video i thought and im sure many other people that they were aggressive and bites.

[johnrichardson]

Hi Steve, totally understand your answer 👍 I live near the Peak District so we have adders on our moors that I survey, it is a problem in certain hotspots where too many photographers/people gather and although most people give them respect there's always one or two that don't, I have noticed the adders will abandon a favourite place and move somewhere else if disturbed too much, have you experienced this?
I absolutely love them and after 20+ years still find it such a thrill to see them, yet again great footage 🐍👍

[Despaler]

Great video! Where in Scotland was this filmed? Been there twice but didnae have the luck of seeing an adder. What kind of venom do they have?

[grahamlindsay]

Magnificent, I would love to just catch a glimpse of one.

[bilbobwa]

That’s a nope from me lol 😂 I just wouldn’t risk it lol

[Thurmatron]

Still don’t get people’s need to ‘interact’ with animals. Take only pictures leave only footprints.

[michaelmurphy]

Not all adders are as passive. I have seen some pretty aggressive ones that i would never pick up. I couldnt get near them for which i am glad although i couldnt miss them as these adders were large. I think its best to leave them be. Their bite for the record is very painful although not fatal. Lots of swelling and vomiting.

[JemSquash]

Such pretty specimens. Mating or fighting?

[brucel]

Not seen anyone handle a wild adder like that, though not deadly they can make you bad.