This selection of Irish animals, native or introduced, is taken from the Appletree Press title Animals of Ireland. There will be a number of extracts from the book in coming months. The book contains highly detailed full colour illustrations to complement the detailed explanatory text.

Viviparous Lizard
Lacerta vivepara
Earc luachra

This, Ireland’s only lizard, is found in all sorts of dry habitats but favours sandy or rocky places, particularly near the sea. It is well known inland though, being found even on the raised bogs of the midlands. Insects and other invertebrates that can be caught are the lizard’s food. Like other animals that are found against backgrounds of variable pattern, its subtle tones and markings render it inconspicuous in its habitat. It is generally yellowish brown with irregular blackish markings along the length of its body but it can look greyish or greenish in different situations.

The young are produced live (hence the name) and not from eggs as is normal with reptiles. They range in number from two to ten or more and though able to fend for themselves within minutes of birth they often fall prey to Kestrels and other predators. On being grabbed by the tail the lizard can escape by detaching itself from its tail.

Other Frogs, Amphibians or Reptiles from Animals of Ireland include:
Common Frog |
Common Newt |
Natterjack Toad |