Common Lizard
Lacerta vivipara

The Common Lizard is the UK's most common lizard species.  It has a widespread distribution and favours habitats with plenty of basking sites.

DESCRIPTION

Size: Adults can grow up to 15cm/6"

Colour: Back can be brown, green, grey or red-brown.  The female has a cream-coloured belly and the male a yellow belly with spots.

Markings: A dark stripe or spots along the spine and white spots along the sides.  Male has spotted belly.

Identifying features:

• Tail can be twice the length of the body if intact - it can be dropped if the lizard is grabbed

• Less than 16cm/6"

Diet: Small insects and earthworms.

Breeding: Males are very territorial before mating.  The young develop within egg membranes inside the female's body and she 'gives birth' to live young sometime between June and September. 

Habitat: Prefers well-drained undisturbed ground with dense but short vegetation and exposed areas for basking in the sun.

Dislikes: Birds, snakes, being grabbed by the tail, very high temperatures.  

CURRENT STATUS: Protected by law against killing and injury.

DISTRIBUTION: 
In your garden... Not common in urban areas, requires suitable habitat
UK: Has a widespread but patchy distribution across the whole of the British Isles.  They are the only reptile to be found in Ireland.

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