Are native British snakes often kept?

[Bats]

Such as grass snakes? The majority of snakes seem to be from South America and Africa and similar - has anyone ever seen a grass snake as a pet?

I just wondered, as I remember my brother found a dead one a few years back (very sad ) that had been run over. It was only small and really cute, even if it had passed on.

[grannykins]

Grass snakes are a protected species. Its also nearly impossible to keep them in captivity as their diet consists of native frogs, which I think are also protected.

[Bats]

Originally Posted by grannykins

Grass snakes are a protected species. Its also nearly impossible to keep them in captivity as their diet consists of native frogs, which I think are also protected.

Ah, so that's why you never see them! You'd think I would do some research, really.

[LiamAndKec]

Dwa holders keep adders, I think.

[Chriseybear]

Theyre protected yes but am I right in thinking they're only Illegal to sell and not actually keep? say you rescued one from somewhere and saved it (doubtful as said theyre not very good in captivity) You'd be allowed to be in possession of it but not sell it on?

Wouldnt keep one myself, but would like to know.





(before the arguing starts)

[loxocemus]

iv kept grass snakes, thier not as difficult as ud think, they will take scented mice and eventually plain ol frozen mice, thier musk though, oh my god, to be honest thiers so many species that are prettier easier etc its not surprising thier overlooked, iv seen smooth snakes for sale once or twice thier euro origin animals obviosly though.

ed

[rakpeterson]

Not commonly kept, but they are kept by some, and its not illegal. They are protected against harm, sale and trade. I think something like f2 or f3 can be sold but it is nigh on impossible to prove.

[Gemonensis]

I had young grass snakes few times. In my country they are not protected, there are lots of them I was feeding them with tadpoles and little fish. Nothing special. Also had smooth snake, and some other species.

[bradhollands999]

Natrix on here keeps them and I think his feed on mice. But no, they are not commonly kept in captivity.

[bluerain]

Originally Posted by grannykins

Grass snakes are a protected species. Its also nearly impossible to keep them in captivity as their diet consists of native frogs, which I think are also protected.

This is spot on!!