Reptiles and amphibians
The amphibians in Ochi live in small aquifers such as streams, creeks and seasonal swamps. Six species of amphibians have been recorded, among which is the Yellow-bellied Toad (Bombina variegata) which is found at altitudes above 400m. near springs, the salamander that breeds in mountain ravines and the toads that we meet in temporary water catchments. Frogs are the most numerous amphibians found in small wetlands and ravines. They consume mosquitoes and flies and their contribution to the control of annoying insects is remarkable.
Turtles are common reptiles in Ochi. We find more the marginated tortoise (Testudo marginata) at all altitudes and quite often the Mediterranean turtle (Testudo hermanni). In ravines and small wetlands we see more often the Caspian turtle (Mauremys caspica).
The lizards in the area of Ochi reach 10 species. The most common are Erhard's wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii), Ablepharus kitaibelii, which is so called because it never closes its eyes, and Balkan green lizard (Lacerta trilineata). At higher altitudes lives the Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) with an impressive blue neck and the Common Wall Lizard (podarcis muralis). The Mediterranean house gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus) is common in all rural homes.
In the open treeless landscapes of Ochi and in areas with low macchia vegetation we find 12 species of snakes. Common species are the slightly poisonous Montpellier snake (Malpolon monspessulanus), the Whip Snake (Coluber najadum), the Caspian Whipsnake (Coluber caspius), the large Four-lined snake (Elaphe quatuorlineata) which is a strictly protected species of the Orient) who considered it the charm of the house in the villages. The Viper (Vipera ammodytes) is the only venomous snake but only attacks when it senses danger. Snakes are good indicators of environmental health and diversity. They are an important link in the food chain as they eat small rodents, other reptiles and insects but are also eaten by birds of prey.
