Widewater Lagoon — Reptiles
Recorded near the lagoon footbridge, Lancing
Both of these reptiles were found in the vegetation near the lagoon footbridge. They were briefly held for photography — not something we would necessarily do today, but it was done with care and both were returned immediately to where they were found. The lagoon embankment and surrounding rough ground provides good habitat for both species, with plenty of cover and south-facing slopes for basking.
— Ray Hamblett
Species recorded
Zootoca vivipara
Common Lizard
The Common Lizard is the UK's most widespread reptile and the only one native to Ireland. It is viviparous — giving birth to live young rather than laying eggs, an adaptation to cooler climates. The rough, south-facing embankment at Widewater provides good basking habitat.
Anguis fragilis
Slow Worm
Despite its appearance, the Slow Worm is a legless lizard, not a snake. It favours rough grassland, hedgerows and garden compost heaps, and is often found sheltering under flat objects. The name fragilis refers to its ability to shed its tail when threatened.
The aquatic life of Widewater Lagoon is covered in detail on
Andy Horton’s Widewater Lagoon page.