Reptoria

Leon rock lizard (Iberolacerta galani)

Leon rock lizard (Iberolacerta galani), typical appearance of the species

Lizards · Difficulty: Beginner with some knowledge

Key facts and care guidance for Leon rock lizard (Iberolacerta galani) (origin: The Cantabrian Mountains, Spain). Adult size around 17–21 cm. Life expectancy 5–10 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Leon rock lizard: How big does the enclosure need to be?

100×50×60 cm for a group.

Leon rock lizard: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 24–30 °C, basking spot Basking spot 38–45 °C, at night 12–18 °C.

Leon rock lizard: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: Essential (UVB 10.0 — these species bask for hours).

Leon rock lizard: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: 5–10 years.

Leon rock lizard: Is it suitable for beginners?

Partly – manageable with some prior knowledge (difficulty: Beginner with some knowledge).

Climate

Daytime temperature
24–30 °C
Night temperature
12–18 °C
Basking spot
Basking spot 38–45 °C
Humidity
40–60 %
UVB
Essential (UVB 10.0 — these species bask for hours)

Enclosure

Minimum size
100×50×60 cm for a group
Substrate
A sand-loam mix with stone slabs, a dry-stone wall and a few plants

Feeding

Food
Crickets, house crickets, roaches, wax moths and the occasional fruit, dusted regularly with calcium and vitamins
Feeding interval
adults 3–4×/week

Key facts

Adult size
17–21 cm
Life expectancy
5–10 years
Origin
The Cantabrian Mountains, Spain
Protection status
Bern Convention Appendix II — proof of origin required
Brumation
A winter rest of 10–14 weeks at 5–10 °C — without it there is no breeding and a markedly shorter life
Cohabitation
Keep as a pair or a small group with one male (1.2 to 1.3) in a spacious, rocky terrarium. Little evidence exists of male rivalry for this species itself; the closely related, also north-Iberian I. cyreni is documented as having a rather loosely territorial system.

Notes

Described only in 2006; a rock dweller in the uplands.

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Related species

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What you need to start

To keep Leon rock lizard (Iberolacerta galani) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (100×50×60 cm for a group), substrate (A sand-loam mix with stone slabs, a dry-stone wall and a few plants), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.

The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.

Last updated: 30 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iberolacerta_galani, https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Iberolacerta&species=galani

All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).