Stellagama stellio (Linnaeus, 1758)

Taxonomic Naming

This species, currently listed under the scientific name Stellagama stellio (Linnaeus, 1758), is also referenced as Laudakia stellio in this description.

Adult Size

Adults may reach a total length including the tail of 35 cm (14 inches), or slightly longer than this measurement.

Geographic Range

Its confirmed geographic range covers Greece and Turkey; other species belonging to this species complex have been recorded in other locations outside this area.

Color Change Function

Like many other agamid lizards, L. stellio can change its body color to communicate its current mood.

Basking Behavior

It basks in open sun on stone walls, exposed rocks, and trees.

Habitat and Temperament

It typically inhabits rocky areas, and it is quite shy.

Anti-predator Behavior

When it detects potential predators, it will quickly dive into rock cracks to hide.

Traditional Excrement Uses

For traditional indigenous communities in Europe, and possibly communities in the Middle East, the excrement of this lizard was widely used as both an eye medication and a cosmetic.

Dung Common Names

This prepared dung was known by several names: cordylea, crocodilea, and stercus lacerti, which translates to 'lizard shit'.

Import Source

This lizard faeces was imported to European pharmacies from the Levant.

Monitor Lizard Dung Variant

A rarer, more potent version of this material was historically obtained from monitor lizards, called stercus magni lacerti.

Dung Medicinal Applications

The dung was used for three main purposes: to improve eyesight, to relieve itching, and to cure cataracts, also referred to as webbe.