This autumn 65 sand lizards (Lacerta agilis), which were hatched and reared in our park, were released back into their natural habitat in Dorset. This activity forms part of an ambitious project, involving the release of baby sand lizards across various locations in the UK, to help ensure the survival of this threatened reptile species.

The sand lizard is the UK’s largest and rarest lizard. It was once a common sight in dunes and heathland, but habitat destruction over the last 100 years has led to it being lost entirely in several counties including Hampshire.

It is estimated that there are fewer than 300 locations in the country where sand lizards continue to thrive. These remaining colonies are mostly found on small, fragmented areas of heath or dune in isolated locations or surrounded by woodland.

The reintroductions took place at five sites in Surrey, Dorset, and mid Wales, in partnership with Amphibian and Reptile Conservation.  The lizard releases went smoothly and we will continue to breed sand lizards for future reintroductions.

Sand lizards are usually considerably bigger, more stocky and have larger heads than common lizards. They feed mainly on invertebrates including spiders and insects but will also eat a variety of other foods such as fruit and flower heads.

Although active during the day, sand lizards are very shy and difficult to spot as they spend much of their time underground and hibernate during the winter months.

 

Photo top right kindly supplied by Paul Edgar

2 November 2009