Sceloporus torquatus torquatus
A species of Spiny lizards Scientific name : Sceloporus torquatus torquatus Genus : Spiny lizards
Sceloporus torquatus torquatus, A species of Spiny lizards
Scientific name: Sceloporus torquatus torquatus
Genus: Spiny lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
Exhibiting an intriguing interplay of behavior and ecology, sceloporus torquatus torquatus is marked by its extraordinary thermoregulatory competence, adeptly altering its hue in response to ambient temperature changes to optimize heat absorption or reflection. Additionally, this lizard displays an intriguing solitary foraging strategy, often strategically employing a 'sit-and-wait' tactic to capture prey, underscoring its adaptation to its turbulent habitat.
General Info
Lifespan
3-5 years
Diet
Sceloporus torquatus torquatus predominantly survives on a diet of small invertebrates. These lizards show a particular preference for consuming arthropods, especially spiders, crickets, and beetles, with seasonal diversification.
Appearance
Sceloporus torquatus torquatus is a medium-sized lizard with a streamlined body and coarse, scaly skin. It exhibits a variety of colors including green and silver, often with black or white stripes running down its back. Males can be distinguished by their bright blue belly patches. A prominent feature is its flattened tail. There are no significant changes in appearance with age, but gender and subspecies may present slight variations.
Behavior
Sceloporus torquatus torquatus is a solitary and territorial reptile, often observed basking in the sun for body temperature regulation. Known for their assertive posturing in defending territories, males notably perform ‘push-ups’ as a show of dominance. They predominantly consume insects, employing a sit-and-wait hunting strategy. Breeding season involves courtship displays, wherein male coloration intensifies.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Spiny lizards Species
Sceloporus torquatus torquatus 
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