DORSET is a UK stronghold for reptiles according to experts.

The county is one of the only places where all six of our native species can be found.

Rob Farrington, of the RSPB, said: “The people of Dorset should be incredibly proud that we are still able to see all six native reptiles where we live.

“Snakes and lizards get a hard time and a lot of bad press but they are truly amazing creatures who lead amazing lives.”

He added: “The RSPB fights for all wildlife and manage large areas of land in Dorset with reptiles in mind, but there are things we can all do to help snakes and lizards to not only survive, but thrive all across the country.”