Description
The adder is the ONLY venomous snake in the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. It's recognizable by the zigzag pattern on its back and the V-shape on its head. It's protected and only bites when startled or picked up.
Behavior
Adders are active during the day, especially in spring when basking in open spots on heathland or forest edges. They're shy and flee from approaching vibrations. Bites are rare — the Netherlands averages fewer than 5 hospital admissions a year.
What to do
If bitten: stay CALM, immobilize the affected limb, and call emergency services. NEVER suck out the venom, apply a tourniquet, or cut the wound. Remove any jewelry near the bite. Note the time of the bite.
Pro tip
Adders love to bask on open patches of heathland in the morning. Always tap the ground ahead of your feet with a walking stick on heathland. Wear high boots.
Interesting fact
Adders are capable of venom-free bites (so-called dry bites), which happen in about 30% of bites. Their zigzag pattern ranges from brown to almost black in females.