Scaly Emerald

The German name of the European Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) is "Smaragdeidechse", which translates to "Emerald Lizard". Both names fit very well and so the coloration of this handsome reptile is not really a suprise. 

Compared to the Dalmatian Wall Lizard (Podarcis melisellensis) in the top left corner, the Emerald Lizard looks huge.

I carefully sneaked up to a nicely colored male specimen. I got very close and took a bunch of pictures.

After proving my patience, I was lucky too: My bright green model was not only used to my presence, it was obviously even bored - and yawned! This observation and a collection of great pictures made my day.

Frog Rescue

When I came across this manhole, I checked if some animals were trapped inside. And yes, I found six Marsh Frogs (Pelophylax ridibundus) and one Agile Frog (Rana dalmatina). It took a little time, but I got all of them and released them at a pond nearby. I seized the oportunity and took a few pictures of the Agile Frog, it was the only one I saw during this trip. 

One week in Croatia, part II

Lake Vrana -the biggest lake of Croatia- and its surrounding areas were proclaimed a Nature Park in 1999. This unique habitat is of inestimable value and is characterized by a high biodiversity. In addition to 249 registered bird species, there are also numerous reptiles. 

The Blue-throated Keeled Lizard (Algyroides nigropunctatus) can be seen in rocky areas and stone walls.

As with most lizards, it pays to be patient again. The male specimens with the blue coloration around the head are particularly photogenic.

Exceptionally beautiful Dice Snake (Natrix tessellata var. flavescens). The Croatian name is "Ribarica", which means "fisherwoman". They can swim & dive very well and they prey mainly on fish. 

I saw a couple of these handsome little aliens: Caterpillar of the Spotted Fritillary (Melitaea didyma).

Beautiful landscape and perfect habitat for reptiles.

Dahl's Whip Snake (Platyceps najadum) is one of the fastest snakes, I have ever seen. Luckily, I was fast enough to get pictures of this nice snake.

With about 50cm (19.7in) the Balkan Green Lizard (Lacerta trilineata) is by far the biggest lizard in Croatia. These "little dinosaurs" were a bit shyer than their smaller relatives.

At the very last day, just after dusk, I found the highlight of this trip: An European Cat Snake (Telescopus fallax) climbing in a stone wall of an old ruin.

...perfect conclusion!

One week in Croatia, part I

For the past few months, I have been working as a naturalist guide in Costa Rica and so nature has been my "office". Before I have to go back to a regular office, working as a graphic designer, I spent one week in Croatia... an European paradise for herping and nature photography.

The Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus campestris) is very photogenic. I saw many of these pretty lizards. Luckily they are not very shy and they can even be curious.

Dalmatian Tortoise (Testudo hermanni boettgeri var. hercegovinensis) is a subspecies of Hermann's Tortoise. This tortoise is spread east of the Adriatic in parts of the former Dalmatia, the Croatian coastal regions, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro, the northernmost habitat of tortoises in Europe.

The Balkan Whip Snake (Hierophis gemonensis) is in my opinion one of the most underrated snakes. It has a wide range and is common within much of its range. Nevertheless, I think it's a beautiful snake!

I am mainly looking for reptiles, but with the macro ready, I always enjoy seeing some insects. The Southern White Admiral (Limenitis reducta) has a wingspan of approximately 50 mm.

The European Legless Lizard or Sheltopusik (Pseudopus apodus)  consumes arthropods, snails and slugs, and even small mammals.

The European Pond Terrapin (Emys orbicularis) is very shy, so you have to approach them slowly and carefully to take some pictures.

Mainly due to the loss of breeding habitats, the European Tree Frog (Hyla arborea) displays a considerable decline in West and Central Europe. Luckily in Croatia I found some of these beautiful frogs in their perfect habitats.

I was able to watch this juvenile Balkan Grass Snake (Natrix natrix persa) hunting for tadpoles.