Lost lizard saved from cold

A rare lizard has survived freezing temperatures after it was found in a Shropshire garden.

The "plated lizard", which usually enjoys high temperatures in a vivarium, was found in a garden in Madeley.

She was taken to the vets where they managed to stimulate her to increase her temperature and save her life. It is hoped she will now make a full recovery after being in a vivarium and under heat lamps since she was discovered on Thursday.

But the find is so rare it has left staff at Haygate Veterinary Centre in Wellington baffled. Kirsty Thompson, spokeswoman for the vets said: "She was just found wondering around someone's garden in Madeley and nobody has come forward.

"Plated lizards used to be more common but they are rare now. She's obviously someone's pet and is very tame but we don't know how she came to be where she was.

"They have to be kept in a vivarium in very high temperatures.

"We don't know how long she had been outside but she had obviously survived some freezing temperatures."

Mrs Thompson said they are now eager to reunite her with her owner.

Plated lizards are native to southern and eastern Africa and can grow to between 16in and 28in long.

Anybody who has lost a plated lizard should contact the veterinary centre on (01952) 223122.