Elgaria kingii kingii
A species of Western alligator lizards Scientific name : Elgaria kingii kingii Genus : Western alligator lizards
Elgaria kingii kingii, A species of Western alligator lizards
Scientific name: Elgaria kingii kingii
Genus: Western alligator lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
Elgaria kingii kingii exhibits an intriguing propensity towards cohabitation with other species, often sharing its refuge space with lizards and snakes. This degree of interspecies coexistence is quite unique in its ecological niche. It is an ambush predator, preferring to lie in wait for its prey, instead of active hunting, which showcases an evolutionary adaptation to energy efficiency in nutrient-poor environments.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Elgaria kingii kingii is primarily an insectivorous species, showing preference for ants and beetles. This reptile also incorporates a variety of other invertebrates into its diet, including spiders, centipedes, and snails.
Appearance
Elgaria kingii kingii is a moderate-sized reptile with a compact, robust body. Its rough, heavily-keeled, and grainy skin surface is dominantly dark brown. The underbelly displays a lighter hue. Bright-yellowish streaks line the back, contrasting with the darker body, and its tail is long, tapering to a point. The male sports a broader head and larger body compared to the female. Young ones are lighter, gradually darkening with growth.
Behavior
Elgaria kingii kingii is a highly terricolous species, most active during the day. Primarily insectivorous, it utilizes tongue-flicking behavior for prey detection. Displaying a solitary lifestyle, individuals only interact during mating periods. Territorial marking is evident by fecal deposit trails. To thrive in its semi-arid habitats nearing deserts, it exhibits burrowing behavior for thermoregulation and predator evasion.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Anguid lizards Species
Elgaria kingii kingii