Hellenolacerta graeca - Greek Rock Lizard
Hellenolacerta is a monotypical genus. Its single representative – Hellenolacerta graeca – occurs on Peloponnese only. This well climbing species occurs in rocky habitats with sufficient humidity. It can be frequently found near water, where cement constructions like bridges act as welcome secondary habitats. Actually, this lizard's artistic ability to vertically climb even on concrete dams is amazing.
On southern Peloponnese (Mani) this species also occurs on dry stone walls in rather arid habitats - however, those are generally close to the sea and therefore may provide some air humidity.
The Greek Rock Lizard is highly variable in pattern with apparently little sexual dimorphism (males have deeper heads). Basic colour may be brownish, grey or black, throats can be whitish, yellow or orange. It's an easy approachable, self-confident lizard.
With its flat head, pointed snout and characteristic dot pattern, this species can hardly be confused with other Lacertids of Peloponnese:
- The Podarcis species (Podarcis peloponnesiacus, Podarcis erhardii, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis ionicus) and juveniles of Lacerta trilineata have shorter snouts and do not show dot patterns. Furthermore, females of the genus Podarcis frequently show a distinct light dorsolateral line which lacks in Hellenolacerta graeca.
- Algyroides moreoticus is smaller and has keeled scales, whereas Hellenolacerta graeca has smooth scales.
