Fauna
Reptile

Ocellated Lizard

Timon lepidus

Also known as Jewelled Lizard, Eyed Lizard, Jeweled Lizard

Ocellated lizards are Europe's largest lacertids, instantly recognizable by the striking rows of bright blue rosettes adorning their emerald flanks. Dominant males aggressively defend territories around dry stone walls, sunny rock piles, and open oak woodlands by gaping their powerful yellow-lined jaws. Active during warm days, they hunt insects, small mammals, and wild berries before retreating into deep subterranean burrows.

ReptileColorfulDiurnal
Ocellated Lizard reference1 / 7
Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE / CC BY-SA 2.0 · cc-by-sa
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyBeetles, Snails, Small Rodents
Predators
  • Raptors
  • Snakes
  • Mammalian Carnivores
ThreatsHabitat loss, agricultural expansion, road mortality, feral predators
HabitatsMediterranean scrub, rocky hillsides, vineyards, oak woodlands
Life span10–20 years
Classification
  1. FamilyLacertidae
  2. SpeciesTimon lepidus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Delivers a painful bite if cornered or handled; observe quietly from a safe distance.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses exceptionally powerful jaw muscles capable of breaking skin and inflicting painful puncture wounds when grabbed.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a robust green lizard with conspicuous blue flank spots and a broad, heavy head.
What to do
Never attempt to catch or corner an individual; enjoy views from at least two meters away.
What to notice
Recognized by its bright emerald body, yellow-spotted back, and rows of cobalt rosettes.
Support conservation
Refrain from dismantling rock piles or stone walls, which serve as crucial shelter.
Responsible observation
  • Approach Slowly: Walk cautiously around stone walls where individuals bask in full sun.
  • Listen Carefully: Rustling in dry leaf litter often betrays their location before sightings.
  • Maintain Distance: Avoid cornering them to prevent defensive jaw gaping or flight.
Related species
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