Aspidoscelis neotesselata
A species of Whiptail lizards Scientific name : Aspidoscelis neotesselata Genus : Whiptail lizards
Aspidoscelis neotesselata, A species of Whiptail lizards
Scientific name: Aspidoscelis neotesselata
Genus: Whiptail lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Koopasteve , used under CC BY-SA 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Endemic to a small portion of Colorado, USA, the aspidoscelis neotesselata is a medium-sized lizard with a long tail. It is a natural hybrid of A. tesselata and A. sexlineata. This species can be seen in dry habitats such as canyonlands, grasslands, and forests dominated by junipers, but also in campgrounds and parks. It's a fast-moving lizard that hunts during the day.
General Info
Lifespan
8-13 years
Diet
Aspidoscelis neotesselata is a primarily insectivorous species, with a preference for ants and termites. It occasionally supplements its diet with small fruits, demonstrating a degree of opportunistic feeding behavior.
Appearance
Aspidoscelis neotesselata is a moderate-sized lizard, measuring up to 5 inches. It has a slender body covered in smooth, shiny scales. Its primary coloration is a sandy hue with black tetragonal markings evenly distributed through the body's length. Its distinct forked tail accounts for two-thirds of its total length. Males are generally larger and more brightly colored than females.
Behavior
Aspidoscelis neotesselata is an active diurnal species, commonly observed basking in sunlight or hunting small invertebrates. It’s solitary outside mating season, employing visual displays for courtship. Aspidoscelis neotesselata employs speed and camouflage for escape and survival, seamless into its desert environment. It does not exhibit criteria for territorial defense.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Koopasteve , used under CC BY-SA 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Whiptails Genus
Whiptail lizards Species
Aspidoscelis neotesselata