Sand lizard  (Lacerta agilis)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Range

The sand lizard is now found naturally only on scattered sites in Dorset, Surrey, Hampshire and Merseyside. It has been introduced to Berkshire, West Sussex, Cornwall, Devon and North Wales, in recognition of the fact that it used to have a wider range encompassing parts of south-east England, parts of the southwest, and North Wales/northwest England. Britain marks the northwestern-most limit of its range.

You can view distribution information for this species at the National Biodiversity Network Gateway.

Habitat

Typical habitats for the sand lizard are lowland dry heathland and coastal sand dunes, though they do occur at low densities in some other habitats. Sand lizards need a variety of structural and temperature conditions to allow them to regulate their body temperature and seek cover from predators. Dense heather and marram grass help to provide this in their typical habitats. A key requirement is for unshaded sand patches, in which to dig burrows for egg-laying and for shelter.

left