Sand Lizard
Lacerta agilis

The Sand Lizard is one the UK's rarest reptiles.  It is usually only found on lowland heaths and coastal sand dunes.

DESCRIPTION

Size: Adults are 16-20cm/6-7.5" long

Colour: Females are grey-brown with dark markings and a cream-white belly; males are darker brown with a dark central stripe and a pale green belly.  Males also have green flanks which become brighter during the breeding season.

Markings: Often highly patterned on the back and flanks, with one or two strong dorsal stripes.

Identifying features:

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

• Up to 20cm/7.5" long

• Bright green colouring (males only)

• Limited distribution

Diet: Slugs, spiders and insects, plus fruit and flower-heads.

Breeding: Males fight for females before mating in late April.  The eggs are laid in sandy burrows and left to warm in the sun. 

Habitat: Restricted to heathland and sand dunes.

Dislikes: Very high temperatures.  

CURRENT STATUS: Fully protected by law due loss and fragmentation of habitat.

DISTRIBUTION: 
In your garden... Highly unlikely due to habitat restrictions.
UK: The stronghold for this species is Dorset, through it can also be found in Surrey, Merseyside and a few other localities where it has been introduced.

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