Adder - Big Moor

I was expecting a cloudy start to the day so was pleasantly surprised to see blue skies first thing this morning. I decided to take the opportunity to have a look at the Adder on Big Moor. Although it was a cold wind there were at least seven male Adder basking in the sunshine.

Adder - male

Adders enjoying the sunshine on Big Moor

With today's sunshine I decided have a look for my first Adders of the Spring on Big Moor with a close friend, Richard Hart. We were not disappointed with at least 6 Adders enjoying the late morning sunshine.

Adder

Adder basking in the sunshine

I saw a single male Adder and had brief views of the secretive female this morning on Big Moor. He was a lovely pale green and I suspect had recently shed his skin. Also my first Common Lizards of the year.

Adder - male

Adder

I have never seen or heard of any confirmed reports of Adder been seen on either Beeley or East Moor, in recent years at least. There is a good population on Big Moor however and sunny mornings in February and March are the ideal time to see them as they warm up in the sun after the winter hibernation.
Roger has reported both Small Tortoise Shell and Brimstone in his garden so it looks like Spring is with us at last, at least for a few days.
My first Chiffchaff this afternoon, singing at Peak Village, Rowsley.

Adder