Giant snakes that can grow up to a terrifying 6.5 feet in length are being found in the walls of British homes to escape the chill, scientists have warned. Researchers found the cold-blooded creatures - Europe's largest serpents known as Aesculapian snakes - "thriving" in parts of North Wales, following a couple of "accidental" releases in the UK, much to the alarm of homeowners. Now, scientists claim species usually native to central and southern Europe are creeping into the UK, with their "climate envelope" – the conditions they thrive in – shifting north.
It marks the first invasion of the reptilian intruders in Britain for over 300,000 years. But experts from Bangor University urge calm since these snakes aren't venomous; they're big-time hunters of rodents like mice instead. Researchers tracked 21 snakes with radio transmitters over two summers, which led them to discover the reptiles are "actively seeking and returning to use inhabited buildings.".
The study highlights: "Two accidental introductions have allowed this species to thrive in Britain. It is not actually novel to our shores, but it disappeared during a previous ice age and has probably been absent for about 300,000 years.". It continues: "While the introduced UK populations appear to be thriving, recent surveys of this snake in the southern parts of its range have discovered a rapid decline, potentially due in part to climate change. Given their status as a non-native species, we were keen to find out how Aesculapian snakes are surviving in chilly north Wales, further north than anywhere they currently occur naturally.".
A statement from the university said it was "surprised by the results", adding: "The snakes had a trump card which seemed to help them weather the cool climate. They were frequently entering buildings – relatively warm refuges – while they were digesting food or preparing to shed their skin. They also used garden compost bins for shelter and to incubate their eggs.". What's more, it turns out that most locals are unfazed by the reptiles, with many unaware of their presence due to the snakes' tendency to hide away discreetly, often in attic corners, reports the Manchester Evening News.
