Canarian Lizards

gallotia

Canarian Lizards, belonging to the endemic genus Gallotia, are a fascinating group of lacertid lizards native to the Canary Islands. These resilient reptiles are famous for their unique evolutionary path, having adapted to diverse island ecosystems ranging from arid coastal scrublands to lush pine forests and high-altitude volcanic peaks. They are remarkable among lacertids for their shift toward a herbivorous diet as they mature, playing a vital role as seed dispersers for several native plant species. Over millions of years, they have evolved into distinct species on different islands, including several giant species that were once thought to be extinct but have been rediscovered in remote, sheer cliffs.

Habitat: They are found across the Canary Islands in diverse environments, ranging from rocky volcanic coastlines and scrublands to ancient pine forests and dry stonewalls near agricultural areas.

Appearance

These lizards display a sturdy, robust build with strong limbs and highly textured, beaded scales. Coloration varies significantly by species and age, but mature males often showcase stunning, vibrant blue or green patches on their flanks or cheeks, contrasting with a dark gray, brown, or black body. Females and juveniles generally feature more cryptic patterns, adorned with longitudinal light stripes and dark brown mottling along their backs. Sizes range dramatically from the smaller, common West Canarian lizard to the critically endangered giant lizards.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassReptiliaOrderSquamataFamilyLacertidae

Canarian Lizards

Interesting facts

Canarian Lizards are vital seed dispersers in the Canary Islands, helping maintain the distribution of several endemic plant species through their droppings.

Some species exhibit striking sexual dimorphism, with males possessing brilliant, electric-blue cheek patches that they flash during territorial displays.

The giant species of Gallotia, once thought to have gone extinct hundreds of years ago, were miraculously rediscovered clinging to life on sheer, inaccessible sea cliffs.

Special abilities

They can shed their tails when grabbed by a predator to distract the attacker while they escape, eventually regrowing a new tail.

They utilize basking on black volcanic rocks to quickly raise their body temperatures, optimizing their metabolism.

Unlike most other lacertid lizards, some Canarian Lizards can produce squeaking sounds when threatened or during social interactions.

Measurements & details

Length: 15-65 cm
Weight: 0.05-1.5 kg
Lifespan: 5-20 years
Top Speed: 15 km/h
Clutch Size: 2-20
Incubation: 50-80 days

Diet & Feeding

While juveniles feed heavily on insects to support their rapid growth, adult Canarian Lizards are primarily herbivorous, consuming fruits, flowers, and leaves.

Age differences: Juveniles are predominantly insectivorous, transitioning to a highly herbivorous diet as they reach adulthood.

Primary Foods

Sweet tabaiba fruits
Insects
Nectar and flowers
Succulent leaves
Snails

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Eurasian Kestrel

Falco tinnunculus

Preys on the lizard, especially young or smaller individuals.

mutualism

Sweet Tabaiba

Euphorbia balsamifera

Consumes the sweet fruits of this shrub and acts as a key seed disperser.

eaten by

Feral Cat

Felis catus

Preys on all life stages of these endemic lizards, causing severe population declines.

Traits

No trait badges are assigned for this object yet.

Also known as

Gallotia gallotiTenerife Lizard

Collections

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Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Canarian Lizards?

The easiest way to identify Canarian Lizards is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Canarian Lizards?

15-65 cm

How much does Canarian Lizards weigh?

0.05-1.5 kg

How long does Canarian Lizards live?

5-20 years

How fast can Canarian Lizards move?

15 km/h

What does Canarian Lizards eat?

While juveniles feed heavily on insects to support their rapid growth, adult Canarian Lizards are primarily herbivorous, consuming fruits, flowers, and leaves.

Where is Canarian Lizards usually found?

They are found across the Canary Islands in diverse environments, ranging from rocky volcanic coastlines and scrublands to ancient pine forests and dry stonewalls near agricultural areas.

How does Canarian Lizards hunt?

Foraging