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Springstone
Closer to the source
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20.05.04 Grass snake found in compost heap
Within three weeks of our new twin-bay composting system being opened we have attracted grass snakes. This, of course, means that the bays are working very efficiently indeed and producing the heat required for quick, effective composting.
As an aside, this also happens to be the ideal conditions in which a lot of snakes will make their nests. The grass snake will travel over a mile to find the perfect spot for its eggs so we are very privileged to have one take up residence at Springstone. The bay it has chosen will be left undisturbed over the winter months and the compost not used until next spring so there is plenty of time for the young snakes to find their way in the world after hatching.
Female grass snakes can reach up to 48 inches in length and their main food is amphibians, only needing one large feed every week or 10 days. It is Britain's largest and most common snake and the only one to lay its eggs in a place where heat is generated - such as a well working compost heap - where hundreds can be laid, giving rise to tales of 'snake plagues' when the young hatch in August and September. A single female can lay up to forty eggs. Grass snakes begin their hibernation in October, in wall crevices, under tree roots and similar places. Ones not taken by birds, hedgehogs or badgers can live for around nine years.
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