Both sexes are similarly marked. Typically these markings are pronounced and extremely simple identify, which includes a heavy dark zigzag pattern down the spine with brown spots in rows on the flanks. At the rear of the top we have a heavy “V” or “X” shaped marking and a dark band running from behind each eye. The young are coloured and marked much like adult females. Males typically have a grey, creamy white or steely grey background colour. Females consist of browns and yellows to brick red. Females are bigger than Males.
Male Adder
Adders could be variable in colour, but often the background colour differs in males and females. Males tend towards a grey, whitish, occasionally yellowish colour. The contrast with all the black markings might make them appear almost silver. The females usually are brownish with considerable variation of shade and occasional hints of red or yellow – although within the latter case always a significantly darker shade compared to the males.
Although Adders are rather stocky snakes they are not very big, seldom exceeding 60 cms long, the males being slightly shorter. The shape is notably totally different from the other British snakes being rather broad and angular by having an upturned snout. of} browns and yellows to brick red. Females are bigger than Males.