Podarcis virescens Geniez, Sá-Sousa, Guillaume, Cluchier & Crochet, 2014

Taxonomic Classification

Podarcis virescens is a moderately sized lizard species in the Podarcis genus.

Size Comparison to Congeners

It can grow significantly larger than other members of the genus, such as Podarcis carbonelli.

Dorsal Color Variation

This species shows great variation in individual coloration, with body colors ranging from white to brown or black. Individuals, especially males, may change their color to green during spring, and this green coloration fades by summer.

Ventral Coloration

The underside of the lizard is more yellow than the rest of its body.

Body Build

Compared to other lizard species, Podarcis virescens has a robust, non-flattened body build, and is considered a robust lizard overall.

Adult Size Range

Males and females are roughly the same size, ranging between 40 mm and 63 mm in length.

Morphological Distinctness

Because Podarcis lizards vary widely in color and body form, Podarcis virescens does not fully share its external appearance traits with other species in the same genus.

Evolutionary History

This distinct appearance is likely the result of increased diversification in the evolutionary history of Podarcis lizards, particularly during the period before and around the Zanclean flood.

General Distribution

Podarcis virescens is native to the Iberian Peninsula, found across Spain and Portugal, and is most common in the central and southern regions of the peninsula.

Spanish Distribution Limits

It is not commonly found in the far southern and eastern parts of Spain.

Recorded Urban Proximity Locations

It has been recorded near cities and villages including Santa Maria da Feira in Portugal, and Villanueva de los Escuderos in Spain.

Habitat Type Range

It can sometimes be found near rivers or mountains, but its overall habitat varies greatly and includes human-inhabited areas around cities.

Anthropogenic Habitat Records

Confirmed sightings of the species have occurred on cultivated plains and along human roads surrounding cities in both Spain and Portugal.