Anatolian rock lizard
# Anatolian rock lizard

The Anatolian rock lizard (Anatololacerta anatolica) is a species of lizard in the family Lacertidae. It is found in western Anatolia and on islands off the coast, where its natural habitats are temperate forests and rocky areas. A common species, the IUCN has listed it as being of "least concern".

## Description

This lizard grows to a snout-to-vent length of about 7.5 centimetres (3.0 in) with a tail twice as long as its body. The head and body are somewhat flattened and the markings rather variable. The basal colour is dark olive-brown and there are usually two series of pale dorso-lateral spots which may merge into each other forming lines. The areas between these stripes have further pale speckling. The throat may be reddish but the rest of the underparts are pale, sometimes with a few dark spots on the flanks. Lizards on Icaria have particularly bold, contrasting markings.

## Distribution and habitat

The Anatolian rock lizard is endemic to western Anatolia (Asia Minor) north of the Büyük Menderes River and to islands close to the coast, some of which are Turkish and others Greek. It is present on Samos, Icaria, Nisyros, Symi, Strongyli Megistis, Rhodes and Pentanisios. It occurs at altitudes of up to 1,600 metres (5,200 ft) and its typical habitat is rocky outcrops, cliffs, boulders and drystone walls. It is often present in rocky areas in woodland and near streams in otherwise arid locations. Females lay clutches of three to eight eggs.

## Status

The species has a wide range and is generally common. The population is large and stable and the main threat it faces are wildfires. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has assessed its conservation status as being of "least concern".

