Podarcis lilfordi balearica de la Isla del Rey

Parks and Nature | Maó - Mahón

Lilford’s wall lizard subspecies (Podarcis lilfordi balearica) occurring in Isla del Rey constitutes an endemism, that is, it can only be found in this islet, and in no other place in the world. Moreover, this vertebrate is also the unique one endemic to Minorca! Thus, it possesses an incalculable valueit and it is strictly protected. It is a medium-sized lizard with very variable colorations and designs, encompassing from blueish-greenish colour-schemes to brownish ones, with dorsal black lines and streaks to a greater or lesser extent. Ventral coloration also varies, from white or yellowish to orange-coloured, being or not blotched with dark spots. Males are bigger and have more robust heads. For that reason, they are easily distinguished from females, which are smaller and have a more delicate constitution. These lizards mainly feed on invertebrates and different parts of plants. Thus, they are omnivores. In the manner of other species of lizards, they are able to discard (and later regenerate) their tail as a self-defence mechanism to elude predators, such as the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), which nests in the islet. Lizards can be found all over the Isla del Rey’s surface, but they show a clear preference to the traditional dry walls (paret seca), in whose clefts they find both refuge and food. Ruins of the ancient Hospital building play also a key role in their conservation. Population density in this islet is high. However, this species is listed as “Endangered” in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Cats and other introduced predators, their translocation and/or illegal capture, and poisoned baits aimed to rats or gulls are the main threats for this species. If you visit the Hospital, please take advantage of your trip to the island so as to watch these beautiful animals. But keep the distances; although lizards are curious about visitors, they should not be bothered. They are the jewel of the Isla del Rey’s fauna, please respect them! written By Alicia Isabel León Lobera. Timetable and visits • Every Sunday morning throughout the year from 8.45 to 11.00 Departures: From 1 April until 31 October at 8.45 from Mahón, Moll de Llevant by the Yellow Catamarans From 1 November until 31 March at 8.45 from Es Castell, Muelle Fontanillas • The second Sunday of the months of May, June, July, August and September will be a second departure at 10.45 from Mahón, Moll de Llevant by the Yellow Catamarans. • Thursdays: from 1 May until 31 October at 10.30 from Mahón, Moll de Llevant by the Yellow Catamarans Contact us To cantact us use our contact form or write to Hospital de l'Illa del Rei s/n Puerto de Mahón Apartado de Correos 777, 07700 Mahón.