Smith's rosebelly lizard
A species of Spiny lizards Scientific name : Sceloporus smithi Genus : Spiny lizards
Smith's rosebelly lizard, A species of Spiny lizards
Scientific name: Sceloporus smithi
Genus: Spiny lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
Smith's rosebelly lizard demonstrates an exemplary ecological role through its diurnal habit and cohabitation strategy. This species forages actively for insects in daylight hours, thereby keeping the insect population in check. Additionally, smith's rosebelly lizard demonstrates communal egg-laying behavior, with numerous females laying their eggs in the same spot. This unique strategy enhances the survival rate of offspring by offering collective protection.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Smith's rosebelly lizard predominantly consumes arthropods, exemplifying an insectivorous feeding behavior. Her diet primarily includes grasshoppers, beetles and spiders, providing adequate nutrients and contributing to her predatory nature.
Appearance
Smith's rosebelly lizard is a modestly-sized lizard with a stocky body structure and rough, spiny scales. Its primary coloration is a warm gray, interspersed with darker markings along the body. A noticeable feature of smith's rosebelly lizard is its long, spiky tail. Some individuals stand out with their dazzling turquoise-blue belly and throat, a coloration associated with maturity in males. The females and younger individuals are more uniformly gray and less brilliantly colored.
Behavior
Smith's rosebelly lizard is a diurnal, solitary creature, known most notably for its basking occupation on rocks to regulate its body temperature. This species displays a territorial behavior, with males defending their areas fiercely from intruders. Smith's rosebelly lizard also exhibits an unusual toe-waving behavior, often before it scurries away to safety.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Spiny lizards Species
Smith's rosebelly lizard