The sand lizard is among the rarest reptiles in the UK. Their shortage implies they are greatly safeguarded, and it is an offense to intentionally interrupt them.
Must you remain in locations where sand lizards may be discovered then constantly stay on walkways or public access however watch on south-facing banks or sandy mounds where lizards may be basking.
Keep an eye out for disrupted sand which may be hiding eggs. These are laid in late May or early June and will hatch towards completion of August.
In this guide, we take a closer take a look at sand lizards in the UK, exposing info on how to recognize them, where they live and what they consume.
Intrigued in discovering more about British wildlife? Have a look at our guides to snakes, frogs and toads, and deer.
Reptiles of the British Isles
Discover the interesting world of snakes, lizards and sluggish worms with BBC Countryfile Publication’s guide to Britain’s 6 native reptiles.
What is a sand lizard?
A little bigger and stockier than the typical lizard, an adult sand lizard– Lacerta agilis— may determine 20cm from nose to tail pointer.
Both sexes are highly significant, with a mix of stripes and areas in brown and grey. The males have green flanks which magnify in colour throughout the reproducing season, offering an apparent and vibrant appeal. This can likewise make them simpler to identify, however care must constantly be taken.
Sand lizard environment
Sand lizards favour heathlands and seasidesand dunes They dig burrows into the sand in which to lay their eggs, the heat of the sun-kissed substrate offering consistent temperature levels for incubation.
Sand lizard circulation
The rarest of our 3 native lizards, the natural variety of the sand lizard has actually been limited to the heaths of Dorset, Hampshire and Surrey and the seaside dune to the north of Merseyside.
Do you understand your amphibians?
What is an amphibian? Where do they live? And what types can be discovered in Britain?
Sand lizard diet plan
Sand lizards consume pests, slugs and spiders, in addition to fruit and flowers.
Sand lizard defense and preservation
Efforts by preservation bodies such as the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) have actually seen a reintroduction program throughout parts of the sand lizard’s initial variety. Populations have actually now been developed at safeguarded websites in north and west Wales, Kent, west Sussex, Devon and Cornwall.
Multi-organisational tasks such as ‘Gems in the Dunes’ at Sefton are likewise continuous with the goal of environment management and public info. There might be opportunities for assisted strolls or work celebrations, so check out the ARC site or watch on regional press for more information.
