Slender glass lizard
A species of Snake-lizard, Also known as Western slender glass lizard Scientific name : Ophisaurus attenuatus Genus : Snake-lizard
Slender glass lizard, A species of Snake-lizard
Also known as:
Western slender glass lizard
Scientific name: Ophisaurus attenuatus
Genus: Snake-lizard
Content
Description General Info
Description
The slender glass lizard (Ophisaurus attenuatus) is a legless lizard in the family Anguidae. The species is endemic to the United States. Two subspecies are recognised.
General Info
Lifespan
12-15 years
Diet
Slender glass lizard is primarily an insectivorous species, possessing a diet predominantly constituting ants. Its foraging habits extend to eating other small arthropods including spiders, beetles, and centipedes, complementing nutritional requirements.
Appearance
Slender glass lizard is a slender, legless lizard, typically measuring 26 to 44 cm in length. It has smooth, shiny scales which are tan, brown or grey with five dark longitudinal stripes. This species is characterized by its elongated, pointed tail which makes up more than half of its total size. Juveniles are darker in colour than adults. There are no significant differences in appearance between males and females.
Behavior
Slender glass lizard is a primarily solitary species with a notable burrowing behavior to escape predators and extreme weather. It exhibits foraging in the twilight hours, predominantly hunting invertebrates. Diurnal cooling in warm environments and basking in cooler climates for thermoregulation are characteristic behaviors. Defensive displays typically involve hissing and tail rattling.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Anguid lizards Genus
Snake-lizard Species
Slender glass lizard