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Holbrookia maculata ruthveni
A species of Lesser earless lizards Scientific name : Holbrookia maculata ruthveni Genus : Lesser earless lizards
Holbrookia maculata ruthveni, A species of Lesser earless lizards
Scientific name: Holbrookia maculata ruthveni
Genus: Lesser earless lizards
Content
Description General Info
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Description
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Holbrookia maculata ruthveni are known for their hardy nature, thriving in harsh desert ecosystems. They exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males engaging in fierce territorial disputes during the breeding season. Diurnal in nature, their diet primarily consists of insects and plant matter, adapting to the sparse desert resources.
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General Info
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Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Holbrookia maculata ruthveni is primarily insectivorous, showing a strong preference for ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. This species also feeds on select arachnids, augmenting its diet with spiders and scorpions.
Appearance
Holbrookia maculata ruthveni is a medium-sized lizard, with a slender, flattened body covered in rough, granular scales. It has a notably long tail, accounting for approximately two-thirds of its total length. Primary coloration is a sandy brown, often speckled with darker brown or black patches, providing efficient camouflage in its desert habitat. It possesses no distinctive features such as horns or wings. Both sexes are similar in appearance.
Behavior
Holbrookia maculata ruthveni is a diurnal reptile, showcasing ritualistic sun basking, foraging, and tail-wiggling behaviors. Known for their solitary nature, they indulge in complex territorial displays, including body inflation and high-speed chases to deter intruders. Males display fascinating courtship rituals involving intricate head bobbing movements.
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Scientific Classification
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Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Lesser earless lizards Species
Holbrookia maculata ruthveni