Madeiran wall lizard
A species of Teira Scientific name : Teira dugesii Genus : Teira
Madeiran wall lizard, A species of Teira
Scientific name: Teira dugesii
Genus: Teira
Content
Description General Info
Photo By H.-U. Küenle , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The Madeiran wall lizard (Lacerta dugesii) is a species of lizard in the Lacertidae family. The species is endemic to Madeira Islands, Portugal. In the Azores, this lizard has become naturalized after involuntary introduction by the shipping trade between the two archipelagos.
General Info
Lifespan
8-10 years
Diet
Madeiran wall lizard primarily feeds on small arthropods, with a particular preference for spiders. This makes them an insectivorous species, although they exhibit opportunistic feeding habits, consuming a varied diet as per availability.
Appearance
Madeiran wall lizard is a medium-sized lizard with a slender body and a long, tapered tail. It possesses smooth, glossy skin that is primarily black with contrasting bright spots of yellow or white. The patterns vary, with some animals displaying rows of spots along the body, while others feature irregular patches. Both sexes have similar colorations, although males are generally larger and possess broader heads than females.
Behavior
Madeiran wall lizard is a solitary species, known for its diurnal activity. It is a sit-and-wait predator, capturing its prey, typically insects, through ambush. Notably, madeiran wall lizard exhibits an unusual leg-waving behavior to ward off potential threats, showcasing its vibrant underside as a deterrence measure. Madeiran wall lizard does not mark or defend its territory.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Wall lizards Genus
Teira Species
Madeiran wall lizard 
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