Cape grass lizard
A species of Snake lizards, Also known as Highland grass lizard Scientific name : Chamaesaura anguina Genus : Snake lizards
Cape grass lizard, A species of Snake lizards
Also known as:
Highland grass lizard
Scientific name: Chamaesaura anguina
Genus: Snake lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By vynbos , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Cape grass lizard, also known as the Cape snake lizard or the highland grass lizard, is a species of lizard in the genus Chamaesaura. It widely found in southern Africa, inhabiting grasslands. In one of the countries it lives in, Swaziland, it is listed as a Near Threatened species.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
The cape grass lizard primarily subsists on a diet of invertebrates, with a particular affinity for insects. This species frequently consumes ants, beetles, and other small arthropods, demonstrating an insectivorous dietary pattern.
Appearance
Cape grass lizard is a small, snake-like reptile whose body can grow up to 60 cm in length. Its long, slender, and limbless body is covered in shiny, smooth scales. It generally exhibits a broad spectrum of colors ranging from yellowish-brown to dark-brown, often with a metallic sheen. Notably, it possesses a short, stubby tail, contrasting its elongated body. There are no significant differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Cape grass lizard is a diurnal animal, active mainly during the day. They display a territorial nature, marking their area with secretions from their preanal glands. They are predominantly solitary creatures that engage in a distinctive 'push-up' display when threatened. Not being particularly adept climbers, they prefer flat surfaces or gentle slopes in their habitats.
Population
Stable
Photo By vynbos , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Girdled lizards Genus
Snake lizards Species
Cape grass lizard