List of Reptiles of Italy

Reptiles are among the most widespread animals on the planet, being found in rich, tropical jungles to arid deserts. They inhabit nearly every country on every continent, including Europe. Italy, known more for the Vatican and its wondrous cities, is, indeed, home to an abundance of different reptiles.

  1. Lizards

    • There are several lizards that make their homes in Italy. These lizards include the Blue-throated Keeled lizard, Bedriaga's Rock lizard, the Western Green Lizard, Horvath's Rock lizard and the Italian Wall lizard. Most of the lizards that inhabit Italy are small and spend much of their time living within rock crevices, sewers and wells. A number of geckos also inhabit Italy, including the European Leaf-toed gecko, the Moorish Wall gecko and the Mediterranean House gecko.

    Snakes

    • Several snakes can be found in Italy. Some of these include the common Grass snake, the Green Whip snake, the Montpellier snake and the Dice snake. The country also includes more dangerous species, like vipers and adders. Some of these include Ursini's viper, the European adder and the Horned viper.

    Turtles and Tortoises

    • Italy is home to a few turtles and tortoises. Loggerhead Sea turtles roam the Mediterranean, and European Pond turtles are a common sight in ponds and streams. There are three varieties of tortoise found in Italy, including the Spur-thigh tortoise, Hermann's tortoise and the Marginated tortoise.