Overview

The European Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) is one of the best known European lizards. In captivity, it becomes very tame and gentle and willingly lets itself to be handled. This species will do well in an outdoor reptiliary in suitable areas. 7 to 14 eggs are normally expected per clutch. The eggs are laid mostly in May and June, often in two or even three clutches.

Appearance

Growing to a total length of about 16 inches, with an elegant tail twice the length of its head an body, this very attractive species is bright green with a sprinkling of yellow and darker green spots. During the mating season, the male’s throat becomes bright blue.

Living Requirements

Ideally, provide them with a large planted terrarium with medium humidity and facilities for climbing.

Tempreature

The daytime air temperature should be maintained around 77°F with hotter basking areas. Reduce to about 68°F at night. A short hibernation period in the winter of 8 – 10 weeks at 47 – 54°F is recommended.

Diet

They feed on a variety of invertebrates, minced lean meat, dog or cat food, and maybe a little soft, ripe fruit. Provide a regular vitamin supplement and a large water dish.

Parasites

Lizards can look healthy and continue to harbor a considerable amount of internal parasites. Usually, they are resistant to parasites and viruses with which they are evolved but become highly susceptible to parasites common in other species. For this reason, if you keep various lizards together, quarantine and provide veterinary assessment for all the species in the community. Wild-collected lizards can be infested with ticks.

Lifespan

With proper care they can live up to 10 years.