Sand lizards in the UK. Lacerta agilis. Following up on the walk with RSPB and ARC (Amphibians and Reptiles Conservation) in England the other day, we were very lucky to find the three lizards of the Uk that we have near me. There is an excellent population managed near me in Farnham surrey on protected land, and we managed to find 15 sand lizards. The sand lizard is one of the UK's rarest reptiles. It favours sandy heathland habitats which we have near us, and can be spotted basking on mossy banks or near logs. Sand lizards are now confined to a few sites as destruction of their habitat has reduced their range.
Female sand lizards - above - are a sandy-brown colour, with rows of dark blotches along the back; males - below - have green flanks that are at their brightest during the breeding season, making them easy to spot.
Males emerge from hibernation in spring, turning a bright green colour as they get ready to mate. These pictured will turn more green after they slough their skin. Females lay their eggs in the sand in June and July, and the young hatch one to two months later.
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