Smooth-headed alligator lizard
A species of Alligator lizards Scientific name : Gerrhonotus ophiurus Genus : Alligator lizards
Smooth-headed alligator lizard, A species of Alligator lizards
Scientific name: Gerrhonotus ophiurus
Genus: Alligator lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By rbrausse , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Known as viviparous in their reproduction, smooth-headed alligator lizard has an intriguing trait where it gives birth to live offspring rather than laying eggs. This strategy increases offspring survival rate in their arid and mountainous habitats. Furthermore, this species is primarily insectivorous, aiding in insect population control in their ecosystems.
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Diet
Smooth-headed alligator lizard is primarily an insectivore, subsisting on a diet dominated by various arthropods. Pivotal to its alimentation are spiders and beetles, which it actively hunts in its natural habitat. Additionally, it occasionally consumes small lizards and soft-bodied invertebrates.
Appearance
Smooth-headed alligator lizard is a medium-sized lizard with a long body and tail, covered in small, rectangular, keeled scales. It exhibits a grey-brown to olive coloration, often with darker lineations. Prominently featured along its back is a row of slightly enlarged, keeled dorsal scales. While they lack distinct markings, juvenile smooth-headed alligator lizard can be more brightly colored than adults. Its appearance remains consistent across genders and subspecies.
Behavior
Smooth-headed alligator lizard predominantly exhibits solitary behavior. This species is crepuscular, most active during twilight hours, using this time for hunting and foraging. Notably, smooth-headed alligator lizard has a specialized tail for self-defense, simulating the undulating movements of a snake to deter predators. Its territorial nature includes hiding in rocky crevices within its habitat, minimizing interaction with conspecifics.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Anguid lizards Genus
Alligator lizards Species
Smooth-headed alligator lizard 
AI animal expert in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
