Maltese wall lizard
A species of Wall lizards, Also known as Filfola lizard Scientific name : Podarcis filfolensis Genus : Wall lizards
Maltese wall lizard, A species of Wall lizards
Also known as:
Filfola lizard
Scientific name: Podarcis filfolensis
Genus: Wall lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By francescocecere , used under CC0-1.0 /Cropped and compressed from original Description
The filfola lizard or Maltese wall lizard (Podarcis filfolensis) is a species of lizard in the Lacertidae family. It is found in Italy (in the Pelagian Islands) and in the island group of Malta. Its natural habitats are Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, rocky areas, rocky shores, arable land, pastureland, and rural gardens.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Maltese wall lizard primarily feeds on a diet of small arthropods. Specifically, its diet consists largely of arachnids, mainly spiders. It prefers feeding on these invertebrates due to its habitat on rocky shores.
Appearance
The maltese wall lizard is a small, slender lizard with smooth, scaly skin. Distinguished for its robust olive-grey to light brown coloration, some individuals show darker spots or bands. A prominent dorsal stripe, though sometimes absent, can be variably pigmented. The tail, longer than the body, is marked with alternating light and dark rings. Males have brighter, more saturated coloration than females.
Behavior
Maltese wall lizard exhibits diurnal activity, frequently basking on sun-soaked rocks. The species has a solitary disposition, often displaying territorial behavior towards intruders. Known for swift movements, it uses its speed to catch prey and evade predators. During mating season, male maltese wall lizard perform distinctive head bobbing rituals to attract females.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Wall lizards Genus
Wall lizards Species
Maltese wall lizard