Viviparous Lizard

The most widespread reptile in Europe and northern Asia, found on heathland, moorland, dunes and rough grassland, where it basks on logs, stones or bare ground to warm up before hunting insects and spiders. Look for it on sunny mornings from spring through autumn, particularly on south-facing banks; it is one of few reptiles able to give birth to live young rather than laying eggs, which lets it survive in cooler climates. It retreats quickly into vegetation or cover if disturbed.