Lurking lizards: Our farmland’s surprising biodiversity

A rare and remarkable find

Common lizards are native to the UK and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, heathlands, and woodlands. Adult common lizards grow to about 15cm in length from nose to tail. They are usually brown with spotted or striped patterns, but their colours can vary widely, ranging from yellow and different shades of green to jet black.

Their populations are believed to be in decline due to habitat loss, changes in land use, and climate change. Despite their “common” name, spotting these reptiles is a rare treat, making this discovery both exciting and ecologically meaningful.

The volunteers’ sharp eyes revealed a total of four lizards – one basking near the log and three others hibernating inside. A find like this highlights the importance of preserving microhabitats like fallen logs and decaying wood, which provide shelter and overwintering spots for various species.

“It is always a bonus to find, and see up close, less obvious species that are supported in the habitat we actively manage. It was particularly surprising to find them on a cold and wet winter morning, and by accident right by where we had parked to clear a footpath of trees that had come down in the wind. It brightened up an otherwise normal day volunteering,”  said volunteer, Chris White.

The role of lizards in farmland ecosystems

The presence of common lizards on farmland demonstrates the ecological richness of the area. Lizards play a vital role in ecosystems as both predators and prey. They help control insect populations, feeding on spiders, flies, and other small invertebrates. In turn, they are a food source for birds and mammals, contributing to a balanced food web.

Their presence can also serve as an indicator of environmental health. Lizards thrive in areas with diverse vegetation and well-connected habitats, suggesting that Earth Trust’s farmland offers the right conditions to support other wildlife. Ongoing species monitoring work, supported by volunteers and partner organisations, is helping us to further explore the biodiversity of farmland and share our learning with others to demonstrate and encourage farming practices that maintain and enhance ecological integrity.

Why this matters

Discovering lizards on farmland carries broader implications for conservation. Farmlands often face pressure from intensive agriculture, which can lead to habitat degradation. However, this find demonstrates that sustainable land management practices – such as those implemented by the Earth Trust – can coexist with, and even support, wildlife populations.

Moreover, with common lizards being a species of concern due to declining numbers, each sighting adds valuable data to the understanding of their distribution. Documenting these occurrences helps conservationists track population trends and identify areas where targeted protection efforts are needed.

“Finding not one but four lizards in one place was an incredibly exciting find while out doing some tree work at Earth Trust. It was my first time seeing lizards here and it is an encouraging sign. They are elusive animals so to find so many in one place is reassuring,”  says Charley Scales, Earth Trust Ranger.

Supporting biodiversity through land stewardship

The encounter at Earth Trust’s farm highlights the critical role that land management plays in fostering biodiversity. Simple actions like retaining deadwood, planting native trees, and maintaining hedgerows create habitats that support a range of species, from reptiles to pollinators and beyond.

As stewards of the land, Earth Trust is setting an example of how nature-friendly farming practices can yield tangible benefits for wildlife. The delightful discovery of these lurking little lizards serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of nurturing our natural environment, even in agricultural settings.

Whether through volunteering, adopting wildlife-friendly gardening practices, or supporting Earth Trust in other ways, everyone can play a part in safeguarding biodiversity.

Let the story of these resilient little reptiles inspire us to cherish the hidden wonders of the natural world around us – and to work towards a future where such discoveries become less rare and more celebrated.