Sand lizard

Name: Sand lizard

Scientific name: Lacerta agilis

Category: Reptiles

Nature Stars: 80

What are nature stars?

About: This is one of the UK's rarest reptiles, maybe even the rarest. Sand lizards are confined to a few sites as destruction of their habitat has reduced their range. Sand lizards like sandy heathalnd (they lay their eggs in sand). Some Wildlife Trusts are involved with conservation prjects to restore and reconnect heathland habitat which shoud help creatures like the sand lizard in the future.

How to identify: Usually a brown-ish colour with stripey and spotty markings. Duirng the breeding seasons the male lizards develop bright green markings making them easy to spot.

Where: Restricted to a few isolated areas mostly on or next to sandy heaths.

Natural Superpowers

• Predator: 70
• Agility: 70
• Rarity: 90
• Cute factor: 40
• Traveller: 30

Fantastic fact: The Wildlife Trusts have been involved with conservation project to reintroduce the sand lizard to its former habitat in places like Dorset.

Photograph credit: David Longshaw