Distribution of the Sand Lizard in 2024-2025

The Sand Lizard Lacerta agilis is a stocky and robust reptile. It has a continental distribution ranging from France to Central Asia.

In France, it occurs in the Massif Central, the Alps and the Northeast region. The garzoni subspecies is isolated in the Eastern Pyrenees, on the borders of Ariège, Aude and Pyrénées-Orientales. The Sand Lizard lizard is rare in the plains and is absent from the Mediterranean area and from a large area along the Atlantic coast.

Be careful to carefully distinguish the Sand Lizard from young Western Green Lizards. Their distinction could sometimes be tricky. Please always give detailed comments and join pictures if possible.

Image: Sand Lizard color could be quite different from one individual to the other. © Edo van Uchelen - Saxifraga.

Map data from Faune-France and partners. Reproduction and reuse prohibited without prior permission by LPO.