Spix's whiptail
A species of Ameivula Scientific name : Ameivula ocellifera Genus : Ameivula
Spix's whiptail, A species of Ameivula
Scientific name: Ameivula ocellifera
Genus: Ameivula
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Miranda J, Lopes Costa JC, Duarte da Rocha CF (2012) , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Ameivula ocellifera, Spix's whiptail, is a species of teiid lizard found in Brazil and Argentina.
General Info
Lifespan
1-3 years
Diet
Spix's whiptail predominantly indulges in a diet of small insects, most frequently ants and beetles. Occasionally, this species augments its diet with plant matter, such as leaves and fruits.
Appearance
Spix's whiptail is a small-to-medium-sized lizard boasting an elongated, streamlined body. Its scales exhibit a smooth, polished texture, with dominantly brown coloration that seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings. Unique patterns of dark blotching with circular, eye-like spots on the flanks contribute to its distinctive look. With no remarkable age or gender-based differences in its appearance, spix's whiptail remains consistent throughout its lifetime.
Behavior
Spix's whiptail are known for their quick, agile movements, darting swiftly across sandy substrates in search of food. They typically demonstrate solitary behavior, with male territory often overlapping with several females. This species is known for its intricate courtship displays and high sprinting ability, expertly adapted to evade predators in their open habitat.
Population
Stable
Photo By Miranda J, Lopes Costa JC, Duarte da Rocha CF (2012) , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Whiptails Genus
Ameivula Species
Spix's whiptail