Steve Allain
Researcher and conservationist
Steven Allain is an avid herpetologist, photographer, researcher and science communicator. His research covers a range of topics, which most recently has involved investigating the population dynamics of grass snakes and the effects of ophidiomycosis. One of his main missions outside of his research is to communicate the growing need for interest in the conservation of amphibians and reptiles. Steven also helps to engage members of the public through a number of different means such as via social media and podcasts, to answer their questions about amphibians and reptiles, whilst also reiterating whilst these two groups of animals are vital components of a healthy ecosystem.
Recent articles by Steve Allain
It's the length of a bathtub, can play dead and has a defensive spray that smells of rotten fish – meet Britain's largest snake
Discover fantastic facts about Britain's largest native terrestrial reptile in our expert guide by PhD student Steve Allain.
Adder guide: how to identify, what they eat and how to avoid being bitten
The adder is the UK's only native venomous snake, and is actually the smallest snake species found here. Adders are more likely to flee than attack, unless they are stepped on or feel very threatened.
Common midwife toad guide: species facts, how they arrived in the UK, and what they sound like
Learn about this insect eating, European dweller with an unusual parenting style and declining population numbers in our guide by Steve Allain.
Alpine newt guide: how to identify, and how they arrived in the UK
How were alpine newts introduced to the UK, and where is their native range? Learn about this non-native species in our expert guide by PhD scientist Steve Allain.
Marsh frog guide: species range, how they arrived in the UK, and what they sound like
Where is the native range of marsh frogs, and where they can be found in the UK? Learn about this non-native species in our guide by Steve Allain.
Smooth snake guide: how to identify, and why they are rare in the UK
In our expert smooth snake guide, learn about the UK's rarest reptile, what's caused its population decline, and where it can be found.