Olive tree runner
A species of Plica, Also known as Harlequin racerunner Scientific name : Plica umbra Genus : Plica
Olive tree runner, A species of Plica
Also known as:
Harlequin racerunner
Scientific name: Plica umbra
Genus: Plica
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Andreas Schlüter , used under CC-BY-SA-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Olive tree runner exhibits a truly unique survival strategy; it has adapted to life in arboreal environments with a specialized tail for balance and grip. Known for its solitary and nocturnal habits, it primarily consumes a diet of small invertebrates, playing a critical role in regulating local insect populations.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Olive tree runner predominately feeds on a diet of arthropods, especially insects. Its feeding habits vary, preferring to scavenge on beetles, spiders, and caterpillars amongst leaf liter, tree trunks, and foliage.
Appearance
Olive tree runner is a medium-sized lizard with an elongated body and a remarkably prehensile tail. It possesses a coarse, granular skin which is primarily dark brown, blending seamlessly into its arboreal surroundings. Intricate patterns of lighter brown and black stretch across its body, offering further camouflage. Of note are its long, slender toes, equipped with sharp claws for advanced climbing abilities. There is little to no visible variation in appearance between age groups and genders.
Behavior
Olive tree runner is a nocturnal creature known for its arboreal lifestyle, primarily spending time in trees for foraging, shelter, and social activities. It exhibits solitary behavior, only interacting with others during the mating season. Its cryptic coloration acts as effective camouflage, assisting in evasion from predators.
Population
Stable
Photo By Andreas Schlüter , used under CC-BY-SA-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Neotropical ground lizards Genus
Plica Species
Olive tree runner