COMMON LIZARD 
Slow Worm may often be discovered in a state of repose, 
and some of its movements are not of a quick nature, it 
can, if needs be, move along at a rapid rate. When in 
motion it is most fascinating to watch, and this too often 
despised reptile should occupy a much worthier place 
than it does in the fauna of our land. The slough, or 
body covering, is cast either in pieces or entire, starting 
at the head and gradually working towards the tail. 
When the old skin is shed both the colour and activity 
of the Slow Worm increase, and it then feeds more 
readily. It hibernates during Winter, but is tempted to 
emerge from its hiding place on a mild day, the warm 
sunshine being much to its liking. Its greatest enemy is 
probably the Adder, but other creatures also prey upon 
it. Man himself is its relentless foe. 
ss rug 
Common Lizard.—Lacerta vivipara (Fig. 6). This is 
the first reptile coming within our survey which occurs 
in Ireland. As a matter of fact, it is the only reptilian 
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