Common Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis

Identification
This species has a slender body with variable coloration and a pattern of spots or stripes. It is adapted to climbing vertical surfaces.

Location
Introduced

Size
5 to 7 inches

Diet
It feeds on insects spiders and small invertebrates.

Habitat
It occurs mainly in the Cincinnati area where it has established introduced populations.

Activity Period
April to September

Behavior
It is diurnal and highly agile and often seen basking on walls and rocks. It thrives in urban environments. It is most active in warm sunny weather.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females lay multiple clutches of eggs.

Population
The population is stable and expanding locally.

History
It was introduced in the mid twentieth century.

Human Interactions
It is harmless and often seen in urban neighborhoods.

Facts
It is one of the few introduced lizards in Ohio.

Sources
ODNR NatureServe

Insects spiders small invertebrates | Urban walls rocky areas disturbed sites | Cincinnati region