A Scots hillwalker was left startled after spotting a huge adder while on a hike on Easter Sunday.
Allan Thorne was strolling across the Larrermuir Hills between East Lothian and the Borders when he stumbled across the massive snake.
The venomous reptile - believed to be almost one metre long - had lying coiled up in a heap of bracken.
Allan took a picture of the serpent before warning fellow hillwalkers to be cautious as snakes are likely to be out in the open after hibernation.
He said: "Came across this guy today. Just a reminder that they are out and about.
"The adder may be sluggish just now as it’s still not warm enough but they can still bite if your not careful.
"It was still too cold to really move but I still took the picture from about a metre away just in case.
"It’s only the second time I’ve ever seen one out in the wild."
Adders tend to habitat in areas of woodland, heathland and moorland.
They are the UK's only venomous snake, although their poison is of little danger to humans, their bite can hurt.
The reptiles will hibernate through the coldest part of the year from around October to March where they sleep in sheltered, dry spots such as old rodent burrows or within fallen trees.
The Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ( SSPCA ) has issued guidance to walkers and dog owners in the event of coming across one.
Gilly Mendes Ferrea, head of education policy and research at SSPCA, said: “Adders come out of hibernation in spring and are the only venomous snake in the UK.
“They are not aggressive snakes and only tend to use their venom as a last resort, for example if they are stepped on or cornered.
“Dogs can also occasionally disturb adders while on their walk. If you are worried your dog has been bitten by an adder please seek veterinary treatment immediately.
“If anyone does come across an adder while out walking we’d simply advise them to give the snake plenty of space and leave it alone.
"If you are concerned you may have been bitten by an adder we would advise that you seek immediate medical attention.”
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
