A stowaway Balkan Green Lizard from the Island of Kos made an unexpected visit to Wales after finding his way into a holidaymaker's suitcase.

RSPCA Cymru was alerted after holidaymakers from Bridgend returned to their Laleston home to find the lizard in their suitcase.

The green lizard, approximately 20 centimetres in length, had shed his tail – a common defence mechanism for the species. However, otherwise, he is in good condition despite the 2,383-mile trip from the Greek island to the less-sunny South Walian town!

RSPCA officers have transferred the lizard to a specialist reptile centre in Pembrokeshire - Silent World - for boarding and care.

RSPCA inspector Nic de Celis said: “After a relaxing break in Kos, the last thing returning holidaymakers would have expected to find amid their belongings was this stunning Balkan green lizard!

“As a stowaway in a suitcase from Kos to Bridgend for many hours, and with temperatures falling from a high of 79°F or 26°C to 59°F or 15°C, this was some ordeal for the reptile.

Balkan Green lizards are commonly found in Greece, and are well known for their striking green colour. They are not dangerous.

Russ and Ginny Spenceley, who run Silent World in Pembrokeshire added: “Fortunately, this lizard is doing well. He’s quite friendly, went straight into a vivarium with us and is eating locusts directly from our hands."