The Aeolian wall lizard, scientifically known as Podarcis raffonei, is a small reptile species that belongs to the family Lacertidae. It is endemic to the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago located off the coast of Sicily in Italy.
This lizard species typically measures around 15 centimeters in length, with a slender body and a long tail, which helps to provide balance during their arboreal lifestyle. They exhibit a distinctive coloration, which can vary from grayish-brown to green, allowing for effective camouflage among the rocks and vegetation where they dwell.
The Aeolian wall lizard is primarily found in rocky habitats, such as cliffs, walls, and ruins. They possess strong claws and can adeptly climb vertical surfaces, using their specialized toe pads, which enable them to adhere to different types of substrates.
Their diet primarily consists of small invertebrates, such as insects and spiders, but they may also consume vegetation, particularly during periods when prey availability is low.
Due to their limited distribution and the presence of several introduced predators, the Aeolian wall lizard is considered to be in a vulnerable ecological state. Conservation efforts are being carried out to mitigate the threats posed by habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change, which can potentially impact this unique lizard species.
