Pyrenean rock lizard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pyrenean rock lizard |
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| in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park | |
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| Genus: |
Iberolacerta
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| Species: |
bonnali
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The Pyrenean rock lizard (Iberolacerta bonnali) is a small lizard found only in the high parts of the Pyrenees Mountains. It is a special type of lizard that lives in rocky areas. This lizard is only active during the summer months.
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What's in a Name?
The scientific name for this lizard, bonnali, was chosen to honor a person named Count of Bonnal. He was a collector of amphibians and reptiles. He lived in a place called Montgaillard, which is also in the Pyrenees region.
Meet the Pyrenean Rock Lizard
This small lizard can grow to about 6 cm (2.4 in) long, not counting its tail. Its tail is usually about twice as long as its body.
Its back is a grayish-brown color. Sometimes, it has tiny dark spots, but it does not have stripes. The sides of its body are dark, sometimes with light flecks. The underside of the lizard can be white, grayish, or even a bit greenish.
Where Do Pyrenean Rock Lizards Live?
The Pyrenean rock lizard lives in the Pyrenees Mountains. You can find it in both France and Spain. These lizards prefer high places, from about 1,700 metres (5,600 ft) to 3,000 metres (9,800 ft) above sea level.
Their favorite homes are rocky cliffs and slopes. They like areas made of limestone, slate, or schist. You often see them on rocks near green mountain meadows. They also live close to fast-flowing streams and cold glacial lakes. Because of the cold, they are only active for a short time each year, during the summer.
Reproduction
The Pyrenean rock lizard reproduces by laying eggs. This means it is an oviparous animal.
Protecting the Pyrenean Rock Lizard
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) says the Pyrenean rock lizard is "near threatened". This means it could become endangered in the future if we are not careful.
Even though there are many of these lizards and they live in national parks, they face some dangers. Things like building new ski resorts or tracks can disturb their homes. Too many cattle grazing in their areas can also cause problems. Scientists are also worried that climate change might affect them in the future.
See also
In Spanish: Lagartija pirenaica para niños
