Schreiber’s fringe-toed lizard

Description:

Medium size lizards with body size reaching 10cm in length and with a tail typically twice as long as the body. The color of the body varies based on the age of the individual. Juveniles have dark back with eight pale white strikes while adults have gray back with brick and black dots and lines of gray spots. The lower part of the tail has red coloration in juveniles, yellow in adult females and white in adult males.

Basic biology:

Mainly found on sandy shores with sand dune ecosystems and sparse bushy vegetation. It can also be found inland in areas with dry soil and sparse vegetation such as riverbeds, semiarid areas or even forest openings. It feeds mainly on small arthropods, although it has been observed to consume a quantity of plant mater such as small flowers and fruits. Reproduction starts during spring and can continue until late autumn. The females can lay up to 4 times a year clutches of 1-4 eggs at each time (usually two) which are placed in tunnels under ground. The eggs are hatched two months after oviposition. 

Distribution at Cyprus:

From the coast to an altitude of 1.700 meters. 

Global distribution:

Eastern Mediterranean (Cyprus, Israel, Lebanon, south Turkey)

Condition:

Common

Protection status:

• Protected by the Bern Convention (Annex III)

• Declared as “Endangered” by IUCN 

Map of confirmed presence: