Species profile
About this species
The European glass lizard is a large, legless lizard native to parts of Europe & Asia, often mistaken for a snake due to its elongated body. Unlike snakes, it possesses moveable eyelids, external ear openings, & a very long tail that can make up two-thirds of its total body length. Adults can reach lengths of over one metre & display a brownish or yellowish colouration with a distinctive lateral groove running along each side of the body.
Open grasslands, scrubland, rocky hillsides, forest edges & agricultural areas with plenty of ground cover, typically in warm & dry regions of southern Europe & central Asia
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph European Glass Lizard with us in Bulgaria.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Spring & early summer mornings, particularly from April to June, when lizards are actively basking to warm up after cool nights
Approach slowly & remain low to the ground to avoid startling the lizard, as it will quickly retreat into dense vegetation if disturbed. Use a macro or short telephoto lens to capture fine scale detail & facial features from a respectful distance. Early morning is ideal as the lizard will be basking & less active, giving you time to compose a well-focussed shot with natural side lighting.
Available holidays
Trips featuring European Glass Lizard
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.