NORTHERN ALLIGATOR LIZARD
Elgaria coerulea
DESCRIPTION
Northern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria coerulea) is a medium-sized lizard known for its distinctive blue or greenish-blue belly. This species exhibits a robust body with a long tail and can vary in coloration from brown to gray, often with dark stripes or spots. They are primarily terrestrial and are known for their secretive behavior, often hiding under rocks or logs in their natural habitat.
FUN FACTS
- Northern Alligator Lizards are known for their ability to regenerate their tails after losing them, a fascinating adaptation that helps them survive predation
- | These lizards have a unique method of locomotion, often moving in a slow, deliberate manner, which helps them remain hidden from potential predators
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
Average Weight50-100 g
Average Length20-30 cm
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuresolitary, with males often defending territories
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- These lizards inhabit a variety of environments, including grasslands, forests, and shrublands. They prefer areas with ample cover such as rocks, logs, and dense vegetation.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Grassland, Shrubland
- Native Range
- Northern Alligator Lizards are found along the western coast of North America, from southern British Columbia to northern California.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- United States, Canada
- Diet
- Northern Alligator Lizards are carnivorous, primarily feeding on insects and small invertebrates. They may also consume small vertebrates such as young mice or other small lizards.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- solitary, with males often defending territories
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
VU
LC
LC
50-100 g
Weight
20-30 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Typically brown or gray with dark stripes and a blue or greenish-blue belly.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally larger and have more vibrant coloration than females.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-10
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urban development and agriculture. Additionally, they are vulnerable to predation by domestic pets and invasive species.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, snakes, and mammals such as raccoons and domestic cats.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can drop their tails when threatened, which may distract predators and allow the lizard to escape.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon