Hellenolacerta graeca - Greek Rock Lizard

Hellenolacerta graeca
Male: GR / Erymanthos, 27.05.2017 - Note the small greenish dots on the flanks.

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:

Hellenolacerta graeca
Hellenolacerta graeca only occurs on Peloponnese.

Hellenolacerta graeca
Male: GR / Leonidi, 19.97.2021
Hellenolacerta graeca
Male: GR / Parnon, 22.07.2021
Hellenolacerta graeca
Male: GR / Leonidi, 17.04.2019 - A very dark specimen
Hellenolacerta graeca
Female: GR / Ag. Dimitrios Zarakos, 17.04.2019 - Note the yellowish throat
Hellenolacerta graeca
Male: GR / Erymanthos, 27.05.2017 - Specimen with reddish throat.
Hellenolacerta graeca
Female: GR / Erymanthos, 27.05.2017 - There seems to be little sexual dimorphism.
Hellenolacerta graeca
Juvenile: GR / Skoutari, 23.10.2012 - Juveniles may have blue tails.
Hellenolacerta graeca
The Parnon Mountains (Peloponnese) - Habitat of Hellenolacerta graeca, Podarcis peloponnesiacus and Lacerta trilineata.