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European Sand Lizard
Paignton Zoo currently cares for two sand lizards. A native species to the UK, they can be spotted in the warmer months in their purpose-built habitat in the wild garden between Bugs At Home and Amphibian Ark.
Class:
Reptilia
Order:
Squamata
Family:
Lacertidae
About the sand lizard
The sand lizard is a European reptile found in heathland, dunes, dry grassland, and open woodland edges. Adults grow to around 18–25 centimetres in total length. During the breeding season, males develop bright green flanks, making them particularly striking.
An insectivore, the sand lizard feeds on a variety of invertebrates. It is largely solitary, with individuals maintaining seasonal territories.
Conservation
The species is listed as Least Concern globally, although habitat loss and fragmentation in countries such as the United Kingdom and across Europe have led to regional conservation concern.