The Mediterranean region is home to various lizard species, often seen darting across sun-drenched rocks or walls. These reptiles are a common sight, blending into the local environment and contributing to the area’s rich biodiversity.
Identifying Mediterranean Lizards and Their Homes
Mediterranean lizards exhibit distinct physical characteristics. The Mediterranean house gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus), for instance, typically measures between 10 to 13 centimeters (4 to 5 inches), though some can reach up to 15 centimeters (5.9 inches). Its body often appears light tan, light gray, or white, with darker spots and sometimes stripes on its tail. They have large, lidless eyes with vertical, elliptical pupils, which are well-suited for their nocturnal habits. Their skin is bumpy or warty, and they possess specialized sticky toe pads along their toes, allowing them to climb vertical surfaces.
These lizards thrive in warm, dry environments throughout the Mediterranean basin. They frequently inhabit areas near human presence, such as university campuses, cemeteries, and coastal regions. They are commonly observed in cracks of old brick buildings or under baseboards. They are also found in natural settings like mountain cliffs and caves.
Daily Life and Feeding Habits
Mediterranean lizards are primarily nocturnal, with peak activity around 2:00 AM. During the day, they seek shelter in crevices and unseen areas. Some species can emit a distinctive, high-pitched call resembling a squeak or bird chirp, possibly for territorial communication.
These lizards are insectivorous, consuming a wide range of invertebrates, acting as natural pest controllers. Their diet includes insects like crickets, grasshoppers, moths, butterflies, cockroaches, spiders, beetles, and ants, as well as isopods and snails. They are visual hunters and prefer live prey. Females typically lay clutches of two eggs multiple times throughout the summer breeding season, usually from April to August. Some species can even store sperm for several months, allowing for delayed fertilization.
Coexisting with Mediterranean Lizards
Mediterranean lizards are generally harmless to humans and pets. They play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations, reducing the need for chemical pesticides in gardens and around homes. Their presence contributes to a more diverse and resilient environment.
Observing these lizards in their natural habitat is best done without disturbing them. If a Mediterranean lizard enters a home, it can usually be gently guided outside. They are not considered dangerous and are a natural and beneficial component of the Mediterranean environment.