Common lizards
Exploring the Fascinating Life of Common Lizards
The average adult is about 15 centimeters in length (nose to tail). The coloration is often a shade of brown, and it often has spotted or striped patterns. There is a wide range of possible color variations; one might see anything from bright yellow to green in a variety of tints, all the way to black as ink.
When newts are found on land, they are frequently confused with lizards. The skin of lizards is scaly, but the skin of snakes and other reptiles is smooth and velvety. You can tell them apart by glancing at their skin. When they are startled, lizards have a tendency to move very swiftly.
The mating season is in the spring, and the females "give birth" to lizards that are about an inch long in August. The common lizard, much like the adder, carries out the process of egg incubation internally rather than laying shelled eggs. As they mature into adults, juvenile lizards gradually acquire a coppery coloration on their bodies. The common lizard prefers open, sunny areas and can typically be found in dry, exposed areas that are in close proximity to dense cover. Spiders and other insects make up the majority of the diet of common lizards.
Common lizards, also known as viviparous lizards, are a marvel of nature. Native to Eurasia, these lithe creatures are so adaptable that they can be found in a variety of environments – from marshy wetlands to desert fringes. It's their resilience and captivating life-cycle that draws the fascination of many.
These creatures are diurnal so they're mostly active during the day – basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature. Those who observe these lizards can attest to their agility and speed, traits that are crucial to their survival in the wild. The Common lizards are carnivorous, feasting mainly on insects and spiders. Their sharp eyes, swift reflexes, and stealthy approach makes them excellent hunters.
Why are they called 'viviparous'? It is because they give live birth which is rather unusual for reptiles. Their breeding season starts in spring, during which males engage in fierce fights to win over females. After a gestation period of around 3 months, females give birth to live young ones. This mode of reproduction is thought to be an adaptation to cooler climates.
Girl scouts, nature lovers, photographers and anyone intrigued by reptiles often find the Common lizards a subject of fascination. Their approachability, adaptability, and the sheer beauty of their scaled bodies basking in the sunlight make them a heart-stealing sight. So, the next time you stumble upon a basking lizard, be sure to pause and appreciate its quiet brilliance. After all, there's more to these 'common' creatures than meets the eye.