Wild Wednesday - Common lizard
The common lizard (also known as the viviparous lizard or its scientific name, Zootoca vivipara) is one of three species of lizard found in Britain. The others are the sand lizard, which is rare, and the slow worm (a type of legless lizard often mistaken for a snake).
The common lizard can be found during daylight hours in a variety of habitats including woodland, brownfield sites, heathland and sometimes in gardens. They spend the night beneath piles of rocks or logs, or in small burrows underground. They hibernate from November to March, in similar places, sometimes in groups.
They vary in colour from black to bright green but are usually brown with a pattern of spots or stripes. Around 10 to 15 centimeters with its tail making up over half of its length, it has scaly skin and a small, pointed head.
Although the species is commonly found, this lizard is in decline, due to habitat loss. It is protected under UK law, however, meaning that it is an offence to deliberately sell, trade, injure or kill a common lizard – or to keep one as a pet, as once captive, any reptile will be protected under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Common Lizards are also listed on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan
Adults emerge from hibernation in spring, mating in April and May, producing 3 to 11 young in July. The common lizard is unusual among reptiles as it incubates its eggs inside its body and 'gives birth' to live young rather than laying eggs.
They feed on small invertebrates such as flies, spiders, worms and occasionally snails and slugs. It hunts by day using sight and scent, warming its body first by basking in the sun, which will raise its body temperature, giving it energy. They will give shake their prey to stun it, before swallowing.
If you find one, it's best to leave it where you found it and re-cover to protect from weather and predators. If this is not possible, relocate it to a similar habitat nearby. Don't be tempted to take it indoors, as once it warms up it will need to eat and finding food will be difficult!
Read more here: Common lizard | The Wildlife Trusts