Pair bonding and multiple matings in the western green lizard Lacerta bilineata

https//doi.org/10.33256/hb172.1719
AUTHOR ROGER MEEK
ABSTRACT Few studies have focused on the activities of individual lizards; which have often been hampered by the problems of tracking them in natural environments. Using photographs; the behaviour of western green lizards Lacerta bilineata were observed during the springs of 2023; 2024. The length of time that males paired with females varied from only a few days to over most of the reproductive season; in this time; two females; one during 2023; one in 2024; mated with more than one male; suggesting that reproductive performance may be enhanced by polyandry. Furthermore; one of the females appears to have laid egg clutches twice within a year; a further enhancement of reproductive performance.

The Herpetological Bulletin is a quarterly publication in English. It includes full-length papers, natural history notes, book reviews, and other items of general herpetological interest. Emphasis is placed on natural history and conservation as well as captive care that includes breeding, husbandry, veterinary, and behavioural aspects.

pdf 04. Pair bonding and multiple matings in the western green lizard Lacerta bilineata

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https://doi.org/10.33256/hb172.1719

AUTHOR: ROGER MEEK

ABSTRACT: Few studies have focused on the activities of individual lizards, which have often been hampered by the problems of tracking them in natural environments. Using photographs, the behaviour of western green lizards Lacerta bilineata were observed during the springs of 2023 and 2024. The length of time that males paired with females varied from only a few days to over most of the reproductive season and in this time, two females, one during 2023 and one in 2024, mated with more than one male, suggesting that reproductive performance may be enhanced by polyandry. Furthermore, one of the females appears to have laid egg clutches twice within a year, a further enhancement of reproductive performance.