Iberian rock lizard
A species of Rock lizards Scientific name : Iberolacerta monticola Genus : Rock lizards
Iberian rock lizard, A species of Rock lizards
Scientific name: Iberolacerta monticola
Genus: Rock lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Querubin Saldaña Sanchez , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Iberian rock lizard (Iberolacerta monticola or Lacerta monticola) is a species of lizard in the Lacertidae family. It is found in Portugal and Spain. Its natural habitats are mountain forests, shrubland, rivers and rocky areas. It is threatened by habitat loss.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Iberian rock lizard primarily subsists on small invertebrates, specifically insects. Its diet notably includes spiders and beetles, which it actively hunts in its high-altitude Alpine and Pyrenean habitats.
Appearance
Iberian rock lizard is a small lizard that typically measures between four and seven centimeters in length. It boasts a slender, streamlined body covered in rough, rigid scales. Its coloration varies from greenish-brown to grey-blue and is usually mottled or marbled, helping it blend in with its rocky habitat. The species also exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males sporting brighter, bolder colors and patterns compared to the less conspicuous females.
Behavior
Iberian rock lizard is a diurnal lizard with basking and foraging activities during the day. It's a solitary species, with males exhibiting territorial aggression against rivals. It employs visual and chemical signals for territory marking. Being viviparous, it displays unique reproductive behavior. Its survival behaviors include remarkable skill at evasion and a capability to survive in high-altitude, rocky habitats.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Querubin Saldaña Sanchez , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Wall lizards Genus
Rock lizards Species
Iberian rock lizard