The Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis)

The Sand Lizard is widespread throughout Europe and much of Asia. However this includes a number of sub-species some of which are very distinct. The two Western European sub-species - Lacerta agilis agilis and Lacerta agilis argos are threatened throughout their entire range. There are three distinct races in the UK and this is a female of the Dorset race - pleading for help.

Within the UK they are restricted to dry lowland heath and coastal dune systems in the South of England and the latter habitat in Merseyside. Colonies tend to have topographical features such as South facing banks which form foci for the population. Thanks to Captive Breeding they have recently been successfully reintroduced to the Welsh Coast as well. Both habitats are under continual threat - heathland in particular from fire, agriculture, afforestation, and construction. In the case of dune systems all of the above apply with the added problem of coastal erosion. And in both habitats pressure from people can be injurious. Habitat management and acquisition has helped to contribute towards an improvement in this lizard's status. Local conservation organisations have helped in the management work. A number of sites where it is found are now well wardened and many individuals have been rescued from sites which are doomed and used to stock appropriate sites where the lizard had not previously survived. But much remains to be done, and while this beautiful lizard's status has greatly improved over the last few years it is still far from secure.

Click here to see a photograph of a pair of Sand Lizards - members of the Merseyside race.

And here to see a portrait of a young Male Sand Lizard - Dorset Race ..........................................................................Back to previous page