Elgaria coerulea palmeri
A species of Western alligator lizards Scientific name : Elgaria coerulea palmeri Genus : Western alligator lizards
Elgaria coerulea palmeri, A species of Western alligator lizards
Scientific name: Elgaria coerulea palmeri
Genus: Western alligator lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Elgaria coerulea palmeri tends to exhibit a gregarious nature, specifically within family units, a trait less common in lizards. This cooperative behavior enhances their effective foraging, often in leaf litter, enriching soil over time. Their unusual metabolic flexibility lets them survive in habitats with variable temperatures, a vital forest and grassland ecosystem adaptation.
General Info
Lifespan
10-20 years
Diet
Elgaria coerulea palmeri largely feeds on arthropods, with a strong preference for beetles and spiders. They are fond of annelid worms, while plant matter makes up a smaller percentage of their diet.
Appearance
Elgaria coerulea palmeri is a fair-sized lizard with a robust, elongated body. It is characterized by its dark blue or blue-gray scales, which turn a brighter hue in males during breeding season. It boasts a stout, blunt tail. Some specimens sport noticeable yellow or cream spots across their bodies. Younger lizards tend to have a lighter and predominantly green coloration which darkens as they mature.
Behavior
Elgaria coerulea palmeri is a docile, solitary species that is most active during the day. Remarkably, it uses specialized gastroliths to grind plant matter for digestion. It demonstrates territorial behavior, driving off intruders through body display and biting, if necessary. Active in milder temperatures, elgaria coerulea palmeri typically retreat into burrows during extreme weather.
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Anguid lizards Species
Elgaria coerulea palmeri