Podarcis muralis breviceps
A species of Wall lizards Scientific name : Podarcis muralis breviceps Genus : Wall lizards
Podarcis muralis breviceps, A species of Wall lizards
Scientific name: Podarcis muralis breviceps
Genus: Wall lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
Podarcis muralis breviceps displays remarkable arboreal navigation and thermoregulatory behaviors. Often residing in older, sun-exposed buildings, it expertly climbs vertical surfaces, hunting for invertebrates. Furthermore, this species controls its body temperature through sun-basking, an essential tactic in its predominantly temperate to subtropical habitat regions, which indirectly contributes to maintaining local insect population.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Podarcis muralis breviceps primarily consumes invertebrates, with insects forming a significant chunk of its diet. It particularly favors beetles, spiders, and caterpillars but will also eat snails and small amounts of plant matter.
Appearance
Podarcis muralis breviceps carries a slim silhouette and is typically small in size with a glossy skin texture. Its base coloration ranges from bright green to brown, often enriched by an elegant network of black or dark spots. The noteworthy features of this reptile include a slightly shorter head than others of its species, and a slender tail. Sexual dimorphism is present, with males presenting a more striking pattern and coloration during the breeding season.
Behavior
Podarcis muralis breviceps is characterized by its distinct diurnal activity, preferentially inhabiting warm and sunlit rocky habitats. This solitary species is primarily insectivorous, hunting during daylight hours. Notably, territorial disputes among males involve physical encounters, using their jaws to assert dominance. Remarkably, podarcis muralis breviceps also demonstrate an exceptional climbing ability, adapted to their rocky environments.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Wall lizards Genus
Wall lizards Species
Podarcis muralis breviceps