Lacerta viridis, commonly known as the Green Lizard or the European Green Lizard, is a species of reptile that belongs to the Lacertidae family. It is found throughout Europe and parts of Western Asia.
The Lacerta viridis is a medium-sized lizard, with males typically growing up to 25-35 centimeters in length, while females are slightly smaller. It has a slender, elongated body and a distinctive bright green coloration, often accompanied by small black or dark green markings along its back and sides. Unlike some other lizard species, it lacks a distinct crest or spines on its head or back.
Green lizards are diurnal creatures, active during the day, and are most commonly found in a variety of habitats such as open woodlands, meadows, heathlands, and rocky slopes. They are agile climbers and excellent runners, often basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature.
As omnivorous reptiles, Lacerta viridis feeds on a diverse diet that includes insects, spiders, small invertebrates, and occasionally even small vertebrates. They are known to be quite territorial, especially during the breeding season when males engage in fierce battles for mating rights with the females.
The Green Lizard is oviparous, meaning it lays eggs, usually in clutches of 10-20, which are buried in warm, sandy soil or hidden in decaying vegetation. The offspring hatch after an incubation period of about two months, with the young lizards showcasing a distinct color pattern compared to the adults.
Due to habitat destruction, fragmentation, and human activities, the Green Lizard has faced numerous threats and a decline in some areas. Conservation efforts and protected areas strive to ensure the preservation of this iconic lizard species
