Slow Worm

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Slow Worm

Slow Worm

The Slow Worm (Anguis fragilis) is a limbless lizard that can grow up to 50 cm. It is found throughout Poland including the Carpathians. In appearance it resembles the European adder, which is a venomous snake. The Slow Worm however is harmless to humans, but can bite if caught. Unlike a snake, the Slow Worm has small eyes with eyelids that blink like lizards. It also has visible ears and notched (not forked) tongue. This lizard is active during the day, but rather secretive and rarely seen. Its enemies include Vulpes vulpes - Fox, Martes - Marten and Meles meles - European Badger. The average life span for Anguis fragilis is about 15 years. Slow Worms reproduce from eggs which the female incubates within her body. She gives birth to live young after about 90-100 days. This animal is under protection in Poland. The Low Beskid - Shore of Black Creek - Rymanow Zdroj - August 28, 2008.
Henryk
on Nov 3, 2008 2:11 am
Image Type(s): Wildlife
Image ID: 460025

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Ejnar Fjerdingstad

Ejnar Fjerdingstad - Nov 3, 2008 11:51 am - Voted 10/10

In Danish it is called

stålorm which means 'steel worm'. You might add that it is live-bearing, I once had one in a terrarium that had 22 young ones about the size of a match!

Henryk

Henryk - Nov 4, 2008 3:35 pm - Hasn't voted

Re: In Danish it is called

Thank you for your comment and adding this interesting piece of information. I will add it to the description. Greetings, Henryk

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