COMMON LIZARD
Zootoca vivipara
DESCRIPTION
The Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara) is a small, adaptable lizard found across Europe and parts of Asia. It is notable for its viviparous reproduction, giving birth to live young rather than laying eggs.
FUN FACTS
- Common Lizards are one of the few lizard species that give birth to live young | They can change color slightly to blend into their surroundings | These lizards are often seen basking on rocks or logs in sunny weather
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Length15-20 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, individuals maintain their own territories
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- These lizards inhabit a variety of environments, including grasslands, heathlands, and woodlands. They prefer areas with plenty of cover and basking spots.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Grassland, Heathland
- Native Range
- The Common Lizard is native to much of Europe and parts of Asia, extending from the British Isles to Siberia.
- Continent
- Europe, Asia
- Countries
- United Kingdom, France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Russia
- Diet
- Common Lizards primarily feed on small invertebrates such as insects and spiders. They are opportunistic feeders and will consume whatever is available in their habitat.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, spiders
- Social Structure
- solitary, individuals maintain their own territories
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 1
VU
LC
LC
15-20 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Typically brown or grey with darker markings, some individuals may display vibrant colors.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are often more brightly colored than females, especially during the breeding season.
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-10
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is generally stable, but local declines have been noted in some areas due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, climate change, and predation by domestic animals. Urbanization has also impacted their populations.
- Predators
- birds of prey, snakes, domestic cats
- Defense Mechanisms
- Common Lizards can drop their tails to escape predators, a process known as autotomy.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon