A rare species of lizard that inspired a treatment for diabetes has been bred for the first time at Chester Zoo.

Three of the venomous reptiles, which sport yellow and black markings, have hatched over the past week.

Beaded lizards, one of only two truly venomous lizard species, found fame in 2007 when it was discovered that it could help in the treatment of diabetes.

Scientists uncovered a new protein in the saliva of the giant lizard which shares similarities with a human hormone that helps regulate blood sugar.

Richard Gibson, curator of lower vertebrates and invertebrates at Chester Zoo, said: “To breed beaded lizards is a great achievement for our reptile team, especially as they are an uncommon species threatened by deforestation and human persecution.

“They are seldom seen in the wild.”

The babies are currently just 22cm long but may reach almost one metre when fully grown.

The lizards, which are threatened by illegal hunting for the pet trade in their native Mexico and Guatemala, will now form part of an international zoo programme aimed at raising awareness of their unique characteristics and the need to conserve them in the wild.