Wedge-snouted sand lizard
A species of Meroles Scientific name : Meroles cuneirostris Genus : Meroles
Wedge-snouted sand lizard, A species of Meroles
Scientific name: Meroles cuneirostris
Genus: Meroles
Content
Description General Info
Photo By tonyrebelo , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Meroles cuneirostris, the Wedge-snouted sand lizard, is a species of sand-dwelling lizard in the family Lacertidae. It occurs in the Namib Desert.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Wedge-snouted sand lizard primarily feeds on various arthropods. Its dietary habits particularly favor insects like moths, butterflies, beetles, and ants, showcasing nocturnal feeding tendencies for increased prey acquisition.
Appearance
Wedge-snouted sand lizard is a small, slender reptile with a pointed beak-like snout distinguishing it from other lizards. Adults generally measure around 9.5 cm in length. Its rough skin is covered in fine scales with a dominant sandy colour to blend with its desert environment, often adorned with darker speckles. Males and females are similar in appearance, while juveniles carry more vivid markings that fade with age.
Behavior
Wedge-snouted sand lizard is a nocturnal reptile, specializing in burrow-dwelling and sand-diving for survival in its arid habitat. It exhibits a solitary behavior, with males engaging in territorial disputes occasionally. Standing motionless with their body lifted off the ground is a unique foraging strategy shown by this species.
Population
Stable
Photo By tonyrebelo , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Wall lizards Genus
Meroles Species
Wedge-snouted sand lizard