Occelated Lizard
Timon lepidus
The Ocellated Lizard, also knows at the Eyed Lizard or Jewelled Lizard, can be identified by their black stippling, often forming a pattern of interconnected rosettes.
Males tend to be brighter in colour than females. Often featuring a green dorsal background and bright blue spots along the flanks. They are diurnal creatures (active during the day) that generally hunt prey on the ground.
Main threats
Habitat loss and pollution
Distribution
Portugal, Spain and south western France
Description
Length: 30-60cm
Weight: approx. 0.5kg
Lifespan: up to 12 years (in the wild), up to 20 years (in captivity)
Preferred habitat
Rocks, stony ground, vineyards, grasslands
Favourite food
Snails, fruit, insects
Family facts
Males are territorial in Spring and fight in the breeding season. The female lays up to 22 eggs in June and July, about three months after mating, hiding them under stones, logs, in leaf litter or in loose damp soil. The eggs hatch in 8-14 weeks. The lizard is sexually mature at 2 years of age.
They are active, diurnal lizards that hunt insects. This species will bite if feeling threatened or uncomfortable, but have small teeth which barely pierce human skin.