Spotted sand lizard
A species of Meroles Scientific name : Meroles suborbitalis Genus : Meroles
Spotted sand lizard, A species of Meroles
Scientific name: Meroles suborbitalis
Genus: Meroles
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Chantelle Bosch , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The spotted sand lizard (Meroles suborbitalis) is a species of lizard found in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Spotted sand lizard is predominantly an insectivorous animal. It feeds largely on ants but also incorporates termites and small arachnids in its diet, depending on availability and season.
Appearance
Spotted sand lizard is a small reptile with a short, compact body shape and scales adorning its skin. Its primary coloration is plain, usually a blend of earthy tan and brown. It does not have prominent markings but a distinct color gradation — lighter on the belly and darker on the back — is visible. This species does not showcase any visible differences due to age, subspecies, or gender.
Behavior
Spotted sand lizard demonstrates a predominantly solitary behavior, typically active during dusk and dawn. Noted for its fasting periods before mating, this survival technique helps cope within its arid habitat. Its swift digging ability helps evade predators and strong daylight heat.
Population
Stable
Photo By Chantelle Bosch , 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
Spotted sand lizard