Podarcis waglerianus Gistel, 1868

Species Nomenclature and Size

Podarcis waglerianus Gistel, 1868, commonly called the Sicilian wall lizard, grows to approximately 7.5 cm (3 in) in length, with males being slightly larger than females.

Dorsal Base Coloration

Its dorsal surface is usually green, though some females may be olive or brownish.

Dorsal Stripe Pattern

It typically has a well-defined white or yellow dorsolateral stripe, and often has a brown stripe or series of spots running along its spine.

Body Spot Pattern Dimorphism

Additional dark spots are arranged in rows on the back and flanks of males, while females often have a more uniform coloration.

Underpart Coloration

The underparts are white with a spotted throat, but breeding males may have an orange, pink, or red suffusion across these areas.

Species Morphological Distinction

Compared to island populations of the Italian wall lizard, the Sicilian wall lizard has a deeper head, a more slender body shape, speckled rather than reticulated markings, and brighter underpart coloration.

Endemic Distribution Range

This species is endemic to Sicily and the Aegadian Islands.

Natural Habitat Types

It occurs in areas with lush vegetation, including woodland edges, bushy slopes, pasture, and cultivated land.

Anthropogenic Habitat Usage

It is also frequently found in gardens, particularly irrigated gardens.

Behavior and Niche Differences

Unlike the Italian wall lizard, the Sicilian wall lizard does not climb often and occupies more densely vegetated areas.

Regional Population Abundance

It is the more common wall lizard species in inland areas, while the Italian wall lizard is more common near the coast.