Although superficially snake-like, the slow worm is a legless lizard, up to 40cm long. Bronze or gold coloured, females and juveniles have dark flanks and often a stripe down the back. Slow worms love compost heaps and are popular with gardeners for their slug-eating habits.
Action Needed
- Support agri-environment strategies to create and restore habitats.
- Work for improved planning processes to take better account of Slow worm presence in the early stages.
- Ensure the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy is fully implemented.
Threats
Development and agricultural intensification, loss and fragmentation of habitat, predation by domestic cats, persecution.
MSP Nature Champion
