A hiker was hospitalised after being bitten by a snake while walking at a Scottish beauty spot on Bank Holiday Monday. The incident occurred at the Whangie, a popular hiking location on Auchineden Hill near Glasgow, around 2pm.
Emergency Response
Mountain rescue teams were dispatched alongside the Scottish Ambulance Service after the man reported feeling unwell following a suspected adder bite. He was transported to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow for treatment.
Lomond Mountain Rescue Team confirmed on social media that they assisted in evacuating the casualty to a waiting ambulance. A second callout was received at 5.03pm for a walker who had fallen in Campsie Glen, with resources diverted to assist a multi-agency response involving the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the ambulance service, and the Coastguard.
Police Scotland confirmed that the car park at the B822 Campsie Fells reopened around 7pm on Monday following the incidents.
About Adders
The adder (Vipera berus) is the only venomous reptile native to the UK. It is easily identifiable by the dark zigzag pattern running along its back. While adder bites are rarely life-threatening, medical assessment is essential to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
What to Do If Bitten by an Adder
- Stay calm and still — Movement spreads venom more quickly through the body. Try to keep the bitten area as still as possible.
- Call emergency services (999) or go to A&E — Always seek medical attention, even if symptoms seem mild.
- Keep the bite below heart level — If possible, position the limb lower than the heart to slow venom spread.
- Remove tight items — Take off rings, watches, or tight clothing near the bite in case of swelling.
- Lie down and rest — Keep movement to an absolute minimum until help arrives.
A Scottish Ambulance Service spokesperson said: ‘We received a call at 2.20pm on May 25 to attend an incident at Loch Lomond. An ambulance, a critical care team and three special operations response teams (SORT) were dispatched. One patient was transported to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.’ Police Scotland has been contacted for comment.
