Common name : Eyed lizard, jeweled lacerta
Scientific name : Timon lepidus
Family : Lacertidae
Native to : Spain, Portugal, France and Italy
Interesting fact : Ocellated lizards were used in traditional Spanish cuisine but these lizards are now under protection in Spain.
Conservation status : Near Threatened
They are the largest lizards in Europe measuring 30 to 60 cm long. Males have blue blotches on the side. Found in woodlands, vineyards, meadows and grasslands, they feed on insects, eggs, frogs and fruits. They are often found on walls and burrows of other animals. Breeding occurs in late spring or early summer. They live for 12 to 17 years.
