The Italian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula klemmeri),is a medium-sized lacertide widespread and abundant throughout Italy. It is a species with wide variability so numerous of subspecies has been described which has been found for example in isolated areas such as small islands.
The annual cycle of activity for the lizard begins in March and ends around November, while in the mountain areas the winter begins in October and ends in April for the lizards. In the coastal areas and islands, there is not a rough winter and it is not uncommon to meet the lizard in these areas on sunny days even in winter.
Females who live in coastal areas can breed two or exceptionally three times in a year, but as a rule each female lays her eggs once a year.
The number of the eggs varies from two to eight and the lizards are born in the period from July to August.
The males of this species are larger and stronger than females, they become very aggressive during the breeding and show their behaviors territorial fighting violently.
The lizard, is protected by various laws, such as Annex II of the Bern Convention on the Conservation of wildlife and natural habitats, and Annex D of the DPR No. 357 of 08.09.1997 (Amphibians and Reptiles of Italian Community interest requiring strict protection).
Photo gallery
Notes
-Bologna M.A., Capula M., Carpaneto G.M., 2000 - Anfibi e Rettili del Lazio. F.lli Palombi Editori, Roma