The Guadarrama Wall Lizard (Podarcis guadarramae) is a rocky-habitat specialist in Spain's Sistema Central mountains, known for its flattened heads, variable dark patterns (spots/stripes), and reddish/pink bellies, feeding on invertebrates, and can even climb trees, but its key feature is its strong link to granite rocks, distinguishing it from other Podarcis species.
Key Characteristics & Habitat:
Endemic to Sierra de Guadarrama: Found in high-altitude, rocky areas like granite screes in Spain's Central System.
Appearance: Medium-sized, brown to green with dark spots/stripes; males often have broad dark bands; belly is reddish, pink, or orange.
Head Shape: Distinctive flattened head and elongated snout compared to other Iberian wall lizards.
Behavior & Diet:
Insectivorous: Eats terrestrial invertebrates like beetles, ants, and flies.
Arboreal Tendencies: Can climb trees and shrubs, though less so than some other lizards, with reasons for this behavior still being studied.
Distinguishing Features:
Rock Specialist: Strongly tied to granite substrates, differentiating it from other Podarcis lizards.
Pattern Variation: Males often show dark stripes, while P. lusitanicus (a related species) typically has dots or net patterns.
