Podarcis pityusensis - Ibiza Wall Lizard

Podarcis pityusensis
Male: E / Formentera, 20.10.2022 - The iconic blue lizard of Formentera

The Ibiza Wall Lizard is an endemic species of Ibiza and Formentera, including the numerous satellite islands. Unlike its relative, Podarcis lilfordi, this species seems to be flexible and opportunistic. Hence, there are vital introduced populations on Mallorca, in the city of Barcelona and even at the Northern Spanish Atlantic coast.

 

Fore the populations of the several islets, more than 20 subspecies have been described. However, taxonomic revision seems to be required. Regardless of this, some of the various color morphs are quite iconic - first of all the bright blue ones from Formentera Island.

 

As it is the only Wall Lizard on Ibiza and Formentera, it cannot be confused with other species.

Podarcis pityusensis
The distribution area of Podarcis pityusensis covers Ibiza and Formentera. Introduced populations exist on Mallorca, in Barcelona and Northern Spain.

Podarcis pityusensis
Female: E / Formentera, 19.10.2022 - Even females may show bright blue colors on Formentera. For more "blue lizards see our trip report from Formentera.
Podarcis pityusensis
Male: E / Formentera, 19.10.2022 - A dark specimen
Podarcis pityusensis
Male: E / Formentera, 17.10.2022 - A male with orange underside
Podarcis pityusensis
Female: E / Formentera, 18.10.2022
Podarcis pityusensis
Male: E / Formentera, 18.10.2022 - A pale specimen from a dune population
Podarcis pityusensis
Juvenile: E / Formentera, 19.10.2022
Podarcis pityusensis
E / Ses Illetes (Mallorca), introduced, 17.03.2014 - In suitable habitats, these lizards may occur in high numbers.
Podarcis pityusensis
Cliff habitat of Podarcis pityusensis on Formentera