The common lizard, which is the only reptile native to Ireland, can sometimes be found living in sand dunes where they enjoy basking on rocks or open sand. Common lizards are usually 10-16cm in length and have small scales on their backs. The male lizards are usually darker than the females with bright orange colouration on their underside. Common lizards emerge from hibernation in the spring as breeding takes places in April, so this is a good time to spot them!

Common lizards hunt for insects such as spiders, snails and worms. They will stun their prey by pouncing on them and shaking them, before swallowing them whole!

Unlike most other reptiles, the Common lizard gives birth to live young which is thought to be an adaptation to the colder climate. Pregnant females can be spotted in September as they tend to give birth to their young during this time.

Through this citizen scientist-led survey, the Irish Wildlife Trust hopes to determine the distribution of both species. This knowledge will allow experts to monitor any changes in the population to ensure any decline does not go unnoticed before it is too late.