The Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis)

Copyright: Paul Edgar

The Sand Lizard is a robust medium sized lizard (up to 20cm total length) which in Britain is limited to sandy habitats - hence its name. Due to vast habitat loss the species now only occurs naturally in Surrey, Dorset and Hampshire where it lives on sandy heathland and further north in Merseyside where it is confined to coastal sand dune systems. The species has now been re-introduced to other sites in these counties and also, to restore its range, to sites in North Wales, Devon and Cornwall and West Sussex.  The Sand Lizard lays eggs in late May or early June, these hatch between August and early October. The eggs are left buried in sand exposed to the sun which helps to keep them warm; this is why the species is confined to sandy habitats.

The Sand Lizard is an attractive animal. Both sexes have brown ocellated patterns down the back with two strong dorsal stripes. The male has extremely striking green sides which are particularly bright during the breeding season in late April and May which is the best time to see the species.

Because it is so rare, the Sand Lizard is strictly protected by British and European law which makes it an offence to:

• ·         kill, injure or capture them;

• ·         disturb them in any way

• ·         damage or destroy their habitat

• ·         possess them or sell or trade them in any way.

It is utterly dependent on well managed heathland or dune habitat where it occupies mature vegetation that provides good cover.