Ocellated Lizard

Overview

Europe's largest lacertid, green with blue ocelli spots, powerful and fast.

History & Origin

The lacertid lizard is native to Southwestern Europe. It belongs to the family Lacertids, a lineage of lizards distributed across those regions and kept both in the wild and by specialist reptile keepers.

Appearance & Size

Ocellated Lizard is a medium (30–60 cm) lizard.

Temperament

It shows the typical temperament of its group—research the species for handling guidance.

Care & Husbandry

Lacertid lizards are active, diurnal insectivores. They need a dry, well-lit terrarium with a warm basking spot, sandy or soil substrate for burrowing, and plenty of space to roam. Feed crickets, locusts and small invertebrates; provide UVB and a cool retreat.

Health & Lifespan

Generally robust; watch for dehydration, parasites and shedding problems. Quarantine new wild-caught individuals, as many lacertids are field-collected. In captivity a healthy individual may live around 5–10 years.

Popularity & Recognition

Lacertids are the common 'race-runner' and wall lizards of Europe, Asia and Africa—familiar garden reptiles valued by herpers for their speed and colour.