Chinese crocodile lizard
A species of Chinese crocodile lizard Scientific name : Shinisaurus crocodilurus Genus : Chinese crocodile lizard
Chinese crocodile lizard, A species of Chinese crocodile lizard
Scientific name: Shinisaurus crocodilurus
Genus: Chinese crocodile lizard
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Spacebirdy , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Chinese crocodile lizard (Shinisaurus crocodilurus) is a semiaquatic lizard found only in cool forests in the Hunan, Guangxi and Guizhou Provinces of southern China, and the Quảng Ninh Province in northern Vietnam. The Chinese crocodile lizard spends much of its time in shallow water or in overhanging branches and vegetation, where it hunts its prey of insects, snails, tadpoles, and worms. Individuals in captivity may be fed baby mice. A rare and little-studied lizard, it...
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Diet
Chinese crocodile lizard is predominantly insectivorous, with its diet primarily consisting of various insect species. However, it occasionally consumes smaller vertebrates and plant matter, exemplifying opportunistic feeding behavior.
Appearance
Chinese crocodile lizard is a small to medium-sized reptile with a slender body that can reach up to 18 inches in length. It has rough, dark greenish-brown skin. A defining feature is the row of large, dorsal scales running down its spine, similar to a crocodile. Its feet end in sharp claws, hinting at its climbing lifestyle. Both males and females showcase a similar appearance with no significant differences noticeable.
Behavior
Chinese crocodile lizard is primarily nocturnal, opting for a secluded, solitary life. Known for its commendable aquatic adaption, its semi-aquatic lifestyle involves a blend of land and water activities. It exhibits an exceptional diving and swimming ability. Chinese crocodile lizard is not territorially aggressive but males may display combat during mating season.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Spacebirdy , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Crocodile lizards Genus
Chinese crocodile lizard Species
Chinese crocodile lizard