PEOPLE have been left "concerned" after learning that a species of snake may make an appearance if they are walking in Ellesmere Port.

A resident from the area confirmed that they had spotted a grass snake around Rossmore Fields at around 8.45am this morning (Thursday, April 20).

She wrote: "Please be aware when walking your dogs on the Rossmore Fields. Grass snakes are waking up and basking on the pathways to try and get heat.

"As the snakes are brown in colour and curled up like a dog dropping, my dog went to sniff as they do and it raised its head and wriggled off into the grass."

Residents have voiced their concerns, curious about what a grass snake is, and if it is harmful to humans or dogs.

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What is a grass snake?

The grass snake is a green/brown snake with yellow and black markings behind its head and dark patterning down it's sides.

They are particularly fond of wetland habitats, but can also be found in dry grasslands and in gardens, especially those with a pond nearby.

During the summer, grass snakes can be spotted basking in the sun near ponds or swimming in the water.

They hunt amphibians, fish, small mammals and birds. 

There are three types of snake in the UK: grass snakes, smooth snakes and adders. The adder is the only venomous species, grass snakes and smooth snakes aren't venomous and don't tend to bite.

'They are non-venomous'

A spokesperson from Cheshire West and Chester Council said: "Grass snakes are native to the UK and harmless to people, they may strike with their mouths closed and can secrete a foul-smelling substance, they are non-venomous.

"They are protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. If you see one, do not approach and leave it alone."