Viviparous lizard
Zootoca vivipara
The viviparous lizard is a small, brownish lizard known for its adaptation to cool and humid habitats. A distinctive feature is its ovoviviparity, where the young are born fully developed in thin egg membranes. It inhabits a vast range from Western Europe to East Asia and can even be found north of the Arctic Circle.
Details
Identification
Small scales, brown base color, dark lateral stripes, often a light dorsal line; belly often spotted in males.
Social behavior
Solitary, but shows less territoriality than other lizard species.
Diet
Feeds on a variety of small invertebrates such as insects, spiders, and small snails.
Hunting strategy
Active visual hunter that locates prey through movement and chemical cues (tongue-flicking).
Overwintering
Hibernation in frost-proof shelters such as burrows or under dead wood.
Ecology
Ecological role
Important predator for insects and simultaneously prey for many birds and snakes.
Natural predators
Birds of prey, corvids, snakes (e.g., European adder), small predatory mammals, and domestic cats.
Competitor species
Sand lizard (in drier habitats), viviparous lizard (conspecifics).
Ecosystem service
Contribution to biological pest control by consuming insects.
Threats
Habitat loss due to drainage of wetlands and intensive forestry practices.
Scientific profile
Profile
Distinguishing features
Compact body with a short, blunt head and relatively short legs. Characteristic is its viviparity (live birth), where the young are born in a thin egg membrane. Significantly smaller and more slender compared to the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis).
Habitat
Eurytopic species with a preference for moist locations: bogs, heaths, forest edges, clearings, damp mountain meadows, and alpine areas up to over 2000 m. Requires habitats with high humidity and sufficient hiding places.