European eyed lizards (Timon lepidus), also known as ocellated lizards, are one of the largest lizard species in Europe, native to southwestern regions including Spain, Portugal, southern France, and parts of Italy. They are known for their striking appearance—bright green bodies adorned with blue eye-like spots (ocelli) along their flanks, which give them their common name. These lizards prefer dry, rocky habitats such as scrublands and open woodlands, where they bask in the sun and find shelter among stones and vegetation. Primarily diurnal and territorial, they feed on a varied diet of insects, fruits, small mammals, and occasionally other reptiles. Though impressive in size, reaching up to 90 cm (about 3 feet) including the tail, European eyed lizards can be shy and will flee if threatened.
