UK's Only Venomous Adder Spotted Swimming Highland Stream

A viral video shared by Cairngorms National Park shows an adder, the UK's only venomous snake, swimming across a Highland stream, highlighting the species' elusive nature and historical presence in Scotland as reflected in place names. Adders are one of three native snake species in the UK and are generally non-aggressive unless provoked. Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, researchers rediscovered the Barbados threadsnake, the world's smallest serpent, after 20 years, underscoring ongoing conservation challenges due to habitat loss and invasive species. In China, scientists discovered two new species of freshwater mussels, including one representing a new genus, revealing greater biodiversity in the Bahe River than previously known. Additionally, a rare terrapin, a non-native pet species, was spotted on the River Severn in the UK, raising concerns about the ecological impact of released pets and potential future breeding due to climate change. These findings and sightings collectively emphasize the importance of wildlife monitoring and conservation efforts amid environmental changes.