One of the most enjoyable aspects of surveying on a reserve is that you never know what you are going to see. This morning I went to Lodmoor to conduct a plant survey of the north of the reserve and to count the Early Purple Orchids. I unexpectedly came across this female grass snake basking on the path. Grass snakes are easily recognised by the collar of two yellow markings with black crescents at the back of the head. Females are larger than males and have a broader head. Snakes are usually very wary and move away very quickly when disturbed. This female grass snake however stayed basking, not in the slightest bit peturbed while I excitedly took numerous photos. I'm particularly thrilled as this is the first time I've ever seen a grass snake.