The European green lizard (Lacerta viridis) is one of the unique inhabitants of the Kuialnytskyi National Nature Park. It can be found in steppe areas, slopes, gullies, and ravines. These animals are known for their ability to dig deep burrows up to 1 meter in length and their impressive running speed. When threatened, these lizards can climb shrubs and trees, leaping from branch to branch to evade predators.
The green lizard is active from March until early October. Its diet consists of various insects, spiders, mollusks, centipedes, and worms, and it occasionally consumes berries and fruits.
Key lifecycle facts:
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Egg-laying: Occurs between May and July.
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Hatching: Young lizards appear by late summer.
Unfortunately, these lizards have become very rare and are now listed in the Red Book of Ukraine. This status makes their protection within our park essential for preserving regional biodiversity.
Photo by Ihor Herzhyk
