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Fringe-toed sand lizard
A species of Fringe-toed lizards Scientific name : Uma exsul Genus : Fringe-toed lizards
Fringe-toed sand lizard, A species of Fringe-toed lizards
Scientific name: Uma exsul
Genus: Fringe-toed lizards
Content
Description General Info
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Description
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Inhabiting the Coachella Valley desert in Southern California, fringe-toed sand lizard is a solitary, crepuscular lizard of the iguana group with key adaptations for survival. Their burrow-dwelling lifestyle, a strategy to avoid excessive heat and predation, showcases remarkable burrowing technique. Interestingly, fringe-toed sand lizard exhibits a specialized diet, primarily feeding on its staple food, creosote bush seeds, which demonstrates its resilience in harsh, arid conditions.
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General Info
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Lifespan
20-30 years
Diet
Fringe-toed sand lizard primarily follows an insectivorous diet, feeding primarily on arthropods. Due to its desert-dwelling habitat, its preference extends specifically to terrestrial invertebrates such as beetles, spiders, and occasionally scorpions.
Appearance
Fringe-toed sand lizard is a medium-sized lizard with a flattened torso and sharp, keeled scales. Its skin exhibits hues of brown and beige, blending seamlessly into their desert surrounding. There are no evident differences in size or color between males and females or across different life stages. The animal's prominent features include its long, whip-like tail and the slightly uplifted snout.
Behavior
Fringe-toed sand lizard is a rather solitary species, interacting during breeding season. Primarily nocturnal, they exhibit sit-and-wait predation for arthropod prey. Their exceptional camouflage abilities lend to their survival in rugged, desert environments. Fringe-toed sand lizard uses body postures and movements during territorial disputes or male-to-female courtships. No long-distance migratory behavior is recognized.
Population
Decreasing
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Scientific Classification
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Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Fringe-toed lizards Species
Fringe-toed sand lizard