Cozumel spiny lizard
A species of Spiny lizards Scientific name : Sceloporus cozumelae Genus : Spiny lizards
Cozumel spiny lizard, A species of Spiny lizards
Scientific name: Sceloporus cozumelae
Genus: Spiny lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By eleealamillo , used under CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Cozumel spiny lizard distinguishes itself through its remarkable ability to thrive in hot, arid climates due to specialized scales that prevent water loss. Also noteworthy is this species' defensive strategy; when threatened, it will adopt an intimidating upright stance, occasionally accompanied by the jittering movement of the tail, an evolutionarily-optimized defensive behavior aimed at distracting predators.
General Info
Lifespan
3-5 years
Diet
Cozumel spiny lizard predominantly feeds on small arthropods, facilitating its insectivorous nature. It exhibits a predilection for ants and spiders, capturing them by employing an active foraging strategy.
Appearance
Cozumel spiny lizard is a small-sized lizard with a streamlined body covered in rough, spiny scales. It possesses a vivid mix of green and blue hues, with a light-colored belly. The species is discernible by its elongated tail, which typically has black bands. Sexual dimorphism is apparent, with males exhibiting brighter coloration and larger size compared to females.
Behavior
Cozumel spiny lizard is a diurnal and territorial reptile, often seen basking on rocks. Known for its vigilance, it retreats swiftly to hide under rocks or vegetation at signs of threats. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism with males engaging in aggressive displays for territory and potential mates, characterized by showy displays of color changes, body posturing, and push-up movements. They are solitary outside of mating periods.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Spiny lizards Species
Cozumel spiny lizard 
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