Boettger'S Lizard

gallotia caesaris

Boettger's Lizard, also known as Caesar's lizard, is a vibrant and highly adaptable reptile endemic to the western Canary Islands of El Hierro and La Gomera. Despite its modest size compared to some of its giant island relatives, this lizard is a key player in its ecosystem, thriving across a range of terrains from arid volcanic plains to lush agricultural fields. Its curious nature and diurnal activity make it a common and delightful sight for hikers and nature enthusiasts visiting these scenic Atlantic islands.

Habitat: Found across a diverse range of environments including rocky slopes, dry scrublands, traditional stone walls, and cultivated gardens.

Appearance

This small-to-medium lizard typically reaches up to 30 cm in total length, featuring a slender, athletic build. Adult males are striking, presenting a dark brown to charcoal-black body often adorned with brilliant blue or green spots along their flanks. Females and younger individuals are more cryptically colored, showcasing a series of pale, longitudinal stripes along their backs and sides to blend seamlessly into dry grasses and rocky crevices.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassReptiliaOrderSquamataFamilyLacertidaeGenusGallotia

Boettger'S Lizard

Interesting facts

Although native only to El Hierro and La Gomera, they were accidentally introduced to the island of Tenerife, where they have established a successful breeding population.

During the breeding season, males exhibit highly territorial behavior, performing head-bobbing displays and flashing their bright blue flank spots to ward off rivals.

They play a crucial role in the island's ecosystem as seed dispersers for several endemic plants, including the Canary Island spurge.

Special abilities

Can detach its tail when grabbed by a predator, allowing the lizard to escape while the wriggling tail distracts the attacker.

Highly efficient at absorbing heat from dark volcanic rocks, enabling rapid warming and active foraging in cool morning temperatures.

Possesses a specialized digestive system that allows it to consume tough endemic fruits, passing the seeds unharmed to assist island reforestation.

Measurements & details

Weight: 0.015+ kg

Diet & Feeding

An opportunistic feeder that transitions from a heavily insectivorous diet in youth to consuming a high volume of plants, fruits, and flowers as an adult.

Age differences: Juveniles primarily hunt small invertebrates for protein, whereas mature adults consume a higher percentage of local plant matter.

Primary Foods

Insects
Spiders
Fleshy fruits
Flowers
Plant leaves

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Common Kestrel

Falco tinnunculus

Frequently preyed upon by local birds of prey scanning the open, rocky terrains.

eaten by

Feral Cat

Felis catus

Suffers significant predation pressure from introduced domestic and feral predators.

competitor

Tenerife Lizard

Gallotia galloti

Competes for food resources and basking spots in areas of Tenerife where Boettger's lizard has been introduced.

Traits

No trait badges are assigned for this object yet.

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Collections for this object will appear here as more themes are added.

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Boettger'S Lizard?

The easiest way to identify Boettger'S Lizard is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How much does Boettger'S Lizard weigh?

0.015+ kg

What does Boettger'S Lizard eat?

An opportunistic feeder that transitions from a heavily insectivorous diet in youth to consuming a high volume of plants, fruits, and flowers as an adult.

Where is Boettger'S Lizard usually found?

Found across a diverse range of environments including rocky slopes, dry scrublands, traditional stone walls, and cultivated gardens.

How does Boettger'S Lizard hunt?

Foraging