Timon lepidus
The ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus), also known as the jewelled lizard, is a large species endemic to southwestern Europe. It is characterized by its robust build, serrated collar, and striking coloration, with males typically being brighter than females. This lizard inhabits a variety of dry, bushy environments and is an opportunistic omnivore.
Key Facts
- ›One of the largest members of the Lacertidae family.
- ›Adults can reach up to 90 cm in total length, with about two-thirds being tail.
- ›Features a green, grey, or brownish dorsal background with black stippling and bright blue spots along the flanks.
- ›Inhabits dry, bushy areas, open woodlands, scrub, and rocky or sandy terrain.
- ›Diet consists of insects, spiders, snails, bird eggs, small vertebrates, fruits, and plant matter.
- ›Listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Ocellated Lizard, Jewelled Lizard, Eyed Lizard, Jeweled Lacerta
Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar, France, Italy, Tunisia
Open Woodland, Scrub, Old Olive Groves, Vineyards, Rocky Areas, Sandy Areas, Dry Bushy Areas
- Robust Build With A Serrated Collar.
- Males Have A Characteristic Broad Head.
- Thick, Strong Legs With Long, Curved Claws.
- Dorsal Background Color Is Usually Green, Sometimes Grey Or Brownish.
- Overlaid With Black Stippling That Can Form A Bold Pattern of Interconnected Rosettes.
- Underside Is Yellowish Or Greenish.
- Both Sexes Have Bright Blue Spots Along the Flanks, With Males Typically Brighter.
- Newly Hatched Young Are 4 To 5 cm Long and Are Green, Grey, Or Brown With Yellowish Or White Spots, Often Black-Edged.
Large Insects, Spiders, Snails, Bird Eggs, Nestlings, Reptiles, Small Snakes, Frogs, Small Mammals, Fruit, Other Plant Matter
- Males Are Territorial In Spring and Fight During the Breeding Season.
- Usually Stays On the Ground But Climbs Well On Rocks and In Trees.
- Can Dig Holes and Uses Abandoned Rabbit Burrows.
- Opportunistic Feeders.
About Timon lepidus
What is the Ocellated Lizard?
The ocellated lizard, scientifically known as Timon lepidus and often referred to as the jewelled lizard, is a prominent species within the Lacertidae family, native to southwestern Europe. It is recognized as one of the largest members of its family, distinguished by its robust physique, a serrated collar, and a vibrant coloration that includes bright blue spots along its flanks, particularly pronounced in males. The dorsal surface typically displays shades of green, grey, or brown, adorned with black stippling that can form intricate rosette patterns.
Habitat and Distribution
This lizard is found across the Iberian Peninsula, extending into southern France and northwestern Italy, with a small presence in Tunisia. It favors dry, bushy environments, including open woodlands, scrublands, old olive groves, and vineyards. While it generally remains on the ground, the ocellated lizard is also capable of climbing rocks and trees. It can be observed in areas ranging from sea level up to altitudes of 2,100 meters, though it is rarer at higher elevations.
Diet and Reproduction
The ocellated lizard is an opportunistic omnivore. Its diet primarily consists of large insects, spiders, and snails, but it also supplements its intake by raiding bird nests for eggs and young, and occasionally consuming small reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. Fruits and other plant matter are also eaten, particularly in drier regions. Breeding typically occurs in late spring or early summer, after which the female deposits up to 22 eggs in a hidden location. The eggs hatch approximately eight to 14 weeks after being laid. Ocellated lizards reach sexual maturity around two years of age.
Conservation and Status
The ocellated lizard is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. In recognition of its conservation needs, the species has been under protection in Spain since 2011, with restrictions placed on its capture and trade.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common names for Timon lepidus?
Timon lepidus is commonly known as the ocellated lizard or jewelled lizard. Other common names include eyed lizard and jeweled lacerta, particularly in the pet trade.
What is the typical size of an adult ocellated lizard?
Adult ocellated lizards typically measure between 30 to 60 cm in total length, including the tail. However, they can grow up to 90 cm and weigh over 0.5 kg.
Where does the ocellated lizard live?
This species is native to southwestern Europe. Its range includes the Iberian Peninsula (Spain, Portugal, and Gibraltar), southern France, and northwestern Italy, with a small population in northwest Tunisia.
What kind of habitat does Timon lepidus prefer?
Timon lepidus thrives in various wild and cultivated habitats, preferring dry, bushy areas. This includes open woodland, scrub, old olive groves, vineyards, and sometimes more open, rocky or sandy locations.
What does the ocellated lizard eat?
The diet of Timon lepidus is varied and includes large insects, spiders, snails, bird eggs and nestlings, and occasionally small reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. They also consume fruits and other plant matter, especially in drier regions.
When do ocellated lizards reproduce and how many eggs do they lay?
Breeding occurs in late spring or early summer. Females lay up to 22 eggs in June and July, typically hiding them under stones, logs, or in loose soil. The eggs hatch between eight to 14 weeks later.
What is the conservation status of the ocellated lizard?
As of 2024, Timon lepidus is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The species has been protected in Spain since 2011, with capture and trade being forbidden.
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