Podarcis liolepis
| Columbretes wall lizard | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Family: | Lacertidae |
| Genus: | Podarcis |
| Species: | P. liolepis |
| Binomial name | |
| Podarcis liolepis | |
| Synonyms | |
| |
The Columbretes wall lizard or Catalonian wall lizard (Podarcis liolepis) is very similar to the other lizards in the Podarcis genus. This species was formerly described as a subspecies of the Iberian wall lizard, but has now been elevated to species status.[1] These are slender lizards with long tails, narrow tapered heads and long thin toes, and stout legs. Colours are variable, although generally grey-brown. Often very subtle spots and stripes along the back and flanks can be seen and these can be more distinguished in the female. The underside is a much lighter cream or beige with sometimes a reddish tint. Adults grow 15–20 cm in length from the nose to tip of the tail. Body length can be a little as one third of the total body length, the tail making up the other two thirds.[2]
Life cycle
Lifespan around 4–5 years. Sexual maturity is reached in their second year. Breeding takes place in spring after they wake from winter hibernation. 1-5 eggs are laid, each around 9x15mm, in cracks in rocks or under stones. During development the eggs swell and after 8 weeks when ready to hatch they can be 8x15mm in size. They hatch out around early July. [2]
Distribution
They are found in the north-east of the Iberian peninsula, including southern France in parts of the Pyrenees. They are not found above 3400m elevation.
References
- ↑ , Renoult et al. 2010 Systematics of the Podarcis hispanicus-complex (Sauria, Lacertidae) II: the valid name of the north-eastern Spanish form.
- 1 2 http://www.herpfrance.com/reptile/catalonian_wall_lizard_podarcis_liolepis.php