Identification
A large green lizard, often with fine dark speckling. Adult males can show a striking blue throat in breeding condition; colour and markings vary.
When to look
Most visible in the active warmer part of the year. Basking depends on conditions, so the hottest time is not always the best time to see it.
Where to look
Sunny edges, scrubby grassland and other warm sites need both basking places and nearby shelter.
Behaviour and ecology
Food and nutrition
Invertebrates form much of its food. Vegetation structure provides both prey and protection from predators.
Breeding and life cycle
It lays eggs in suitable ground during the reproductive season. Undisturbed soil and vegetation are part of a functioning habitat.
A closer look
Basking and retreat are complementary behaviours. An apparently untidy mix of sunlight and cover can be more useful than completely cleared ground.
Observation and photography
Wait for natural basking and let the lizard reach cover. Do not chase, catch or hold it for a close photograph.
Sources and further reading
Observe without handling or moving animals, collecting eggs or disturbing shelters. Avoid trampling pond margins. Do not lift cover objects for photographs. Do not treat a short guide as a safe snake-identification or handling manual.