Distribution, Ecology and Conservation Status of the Ocellated Lizard (timon Lepidus) in Italy (reptilia, Lacertidae)

The ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus), which reaches its eastern range limit in Italy, is distributed along the coastal areas of Liguria. A field survey from 1999 to 2002, verified the status of the Italian populations. The observation of this species is very difficult in Liguria because of the scattered populations and their scarce density. Some new localities were discovered both in the Imperia and Savona provinces, and others were confirmed. An analysis of previous known records was also carried out. T. lepidus is distributed in this area from sea level to about 670 m a.s.l. in several primary or derived Mediterranean habitats such as maquis, pine open woodland and olive groves. The species has a wide phenology, and sightings have been recorded from January to November, though it is particularly active from April to September. The conservation status of the sites and their ecological suitability for the species were evaluated, and a general conservation strategy proposed.