Hellenolacerta graeca (Bedriaga, 1886)

Common Name and Taxon Identity

Hellenolacerta graeca, commonly known as the Greek rock lizard, is a medium-sized lizard species.

Body Length

It reaches a snout-to-vent length of approximately 8 centimeters (3 inches), with a tail that is at least twice as long as its body.

Body and Limb Structure

Its body is somewhat flattened, and its legs are relatively long and slender.

Dorsal Base Coloration

The dorsal surface is typically a glossy greyish-brown, though it can also be yellowish-brown, sometimes with a faint reddish tinge.

Male Dorsal and Flank Markings

Males have irregular dark spots on the back and dark flanks covered with many small pale spots.

Female Dorsal and Flank Markings

Females have smaller heads, fewer dark spots on the back, and their flank pale spots are more diffuse.

Shoulder Blue Spots

One or two blue spots are sometimes present above the shoulder; in males, these spots may extend a short distance along the flanks.

Underpart Coloration and Markings

The underparts are yellow or orange, and are usually speckled with fine dark markings, which are most prominent on the throat.

Endemic Range

This species is endemic to the Peloponnese region of southern Greece.

Altitudinal Distribution

It occurs at altitudes up to 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) above sea level, though most individuals are found between 300 and 700 meters (980 to 2,300 feet).

Habitat Preferences

It typically inhabits humid rocky habitats near streams and pools, light woodland, field edges adjacent to woodland, and shady rocky or scree areas.