PEOPLE are being asked to be extra vigilant while walking in the Lammermuir Hills to avoid a nasty encounter with Britain’s only venomous snake.

Adders can be found in the Lammermuirs, which straddle the border between East Lothian and the Scottish Borders, basking in sunny spots and are likely to be more visible in the coming weeks as they emerge from hibernation.

Despite being venomous, the venom itself is of little danger to humans. It is only dangerous to the young, old or ill.

However, the bite itself can be very painful and cause a nasty inflammation, particularly in those without any pre-existing conditions.

The bites can also be dangerous to pets and have caused death in animals such as dogs.

Despite this, adders are very timid snakes and only bite in self-defence, for example during attempted capture, handling or if accidentally stepped on.

The snakes can grow up to two feet long and can be identified by the distinctive zig-zag patterns on their backs. But these can often be missed by people who are instead taking in the scenery and surroundings, so people are being asked to have more awareness while in the area.