Brown-patched kangaroo lizard
A species of Otocryptis, Also known as Wiegmann's agama Scientific name : Otocryptis wiegmanni Genus : Otocryptis
Brown-patched kangaroo lizard, A species of Otocryptis
Also known as:
Wiegmann's agama
Scientific name: Otocryptis wiegmanni
Genus: Otocryptis
Content
Description General Info
Photo By melianie_max_and_asker , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Otocryptis wiegmanni, commonly called the brown-patched kangaroo lizard, Sri Lankan kangaroo lizard or Wiegmann's agama, is a small, ground-dwelling agamid lizard endemic to Sri Lanka.
General Info
Lifespan
3-5 years
Diet
Brown-patched kangaroo lizard is an herbivore, primarily feeding on leaves. It prefers young, tender leaves, and consumes a variety of species, often grazing in lower shrubs. It's also known to supplement its diet with fruits, flowers, and seeds.
Appearance
Brown-patched kangaroo lizard is a small, ground-dwelling lizard with a slender body covered in smooth, dry skin. Its coloration is a vibrant green and brown, sometimes featuring orange-brown spots, which provide excellent camouflage. Males typically sport a dorsal crest extending from the neck to the tail. Both genders have extended snouts and long tails, serving as essential tools for balance while moving through vegetation.
Behavior
Brown-patched kangaroo lizard is a solitary, territorial reptile. Its characteristic high-speed leap for pre-landing body rotation functions as escape behavior from predators. It also vaults at high speeds towards insect prey. Within its territory, brown-patched kangaroo lizard uses visual and postural signals to communicate threats to intruders. During courtship, males perform tail-wagging display to females.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By melianie_max_and_asker , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Dragons Genus
Otocryptis Species
Brown-patched kangaroo lizard