A lounging legless lizard

There’s something strange in the long grass between all the brown leaves in Dunsford Wood by the banks of the River Teign on Dartmoor:

It’s a Slow Worm, Anguis fragilis. I’ve only seen one a couple of times and each time has been a thrill. It’s great to watch it blink and flick its tongue out – but only for a moment before it goes back safely:

Back to its life of seeking sunshine and slugs.

Thanks to Deb Rylands for taking the photograph.