Wildlife in Norfolk Home > Wildlife in Norfolk > Species explorer > Amphibians and Reptiles > Common lizard Common lizard Adder Common frog Common toad Grass snake Great crested newt Natterjack toad Slow worm Smooth newt Pool frog Nature reserves Habitat explorer Common lizard by Georgina Dean 3/3 Common lizard sunning itself 1/3 Common lizard by Nick Richardson Common lizard Lacerta Zootoca vivipara The common lizard is the UK’s most common and widespread reptile. It is the only reptile native to Ireland. It is found across many habitats including heathland, moorland, woodland and grassland where it can be seen basking in sunny spots. Also known as the viviparous lizard, the species is unusual among reptiles for ‘giving birth’ to live young rather than laying eggs. Conservation status Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981, and classified as a Priority Species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Related questions & advice Where can I see reptiles in Norfolk? What reptiles can I see in Norfolk? Details Did you know? If threatened by a predator, the common lizard will shed its still-moving tail in order to distract its attacker and make a quick getaway. This leaves a scar behind, but it can regrow its tail, although it is usually shorter than the original. How to recognise Where to see When to see Find out more How to help Gallery feed See all photos Whats on? December 2021 M T W T F S S 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Share this Share Also in this section Nature reserves Species Explorer Social media Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Features Do you have a question about Norfolk's wildlife? Vine House Farm Bird Food Hide footer Make a donation Volunteer & Jobs What's on Education Head Office Norfolk Wildlife Trust Bewick House 22 Thorpe Road Norwich, NR1 1RY Map Support About and contact Privacy policy Terms of use Cookies Social Media Twitter Facebook YouTube Instagram Popular resources A Living Landscape Nature reserves Species explorer Habitat explorer © 2021 NWT Reg Charity Number 208734 / Registered in England as a Company limited by guarantee no. 217338 / Email info@norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk / Empresa web design