Common Lizards in October
As the crisp days of October arrive in the UK, our native common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) enters one of the most important stages of its year: preparing for brumation (similar to hibernation, but animals will only come out during warmer periods in winter). These reptiles, often spotted basking in summer sunshine, are now shifting their behaviour to cope with falling temperatures and shorter days.
Seasonal Behaviour
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Reduced Activity: Being cold-blooded, lizards depend on external warmth to stay active. By October, the cooler air and weaker sunlight mean they spend far less time basking and feeding.
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Searching for Shelter: Instead of roaming in search of prey, they begin looking for hibernation sites, known as hibernacula, where they will remain hidden until spring.
Choosing a Brumation Spot
Common lizards seek out safe places that provide:
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Frost Protection – deep vegetation, old tree stumps, or burrows that stay above freezing.
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Moisture – enough dampness to prevent dehydration, but not waterlogged.
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Cover from Predators – hidden crevices or log piles that conceal them from birds, mammals, or even domestic pets.
These shelters are vital to survival, as a poorly chosen site could leave the lizard vulnerable during the long winter. Find out more about how to build shelters for wildlife at home on our website.
Young Lizards in October
Juveniles, born in late summer, face an especially tough challenge. They have only a few weeks to feed and build strength before cold weather forces them underground. October is a critical month in their development, and only those that find secure hibernation spots are likely to emerge again in spring.
Spotting Lizards in Autumn
While sightings are less common, it is still possible to see lizards on mild October days. They may bask briefly in weak sunshine to top up their body heat before returning to cover. By the end of the month, however, most will have vanished from view completely.
If you spot dead (make sure they’re dead and not hibernating during the winter months) or diseased reptiles or amphibians, please report them to our partners at Garden Wildlife Health.
Remember to record any sightings on our free Dragon Finder app. This helps us see how reptiles are fairing in the UK. Reptiles are vastly under-reported!
How You Can Help
If you manage a garden or local green space, you can make conditions friendlier for common lizards by:
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Leaving log or rock piles undisturbed.
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Avoiding cutting back dense vegetation in autumn.
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Creating wild corners where lizards can hunt and later hibernate.
These simple actions can provide vital refuges for reptiles as they prepare for the cold months.
In Summary
By October, common lizards are winding down their year, seeking safe winter homes where they will remain in torpor until spring sunshine returns. For wildlife watchers, this is the last chance to spot them before their seasonal disappearance and a reminder of just how carefully adapted they are to Britain’s changing seasons.