SPOTTED GIRDLED LIZARD
Cordylus tropidosternum
DESCRIPTION
The Spotted Girdled Lizard, or Cordylus tropidosternum, is a small to medium-sized lizard characterized by its distinctive spotted pattern and robust body. It has a spiny appearance due to the presence of small, pointed scales along its back and sides, which provide protection from predators. This species is primarily terrestrial and is known for its ability to climb and hide among rocks and crevices in its natural habitat.
FUN FACTS
- The Spotted Girdled Lizard is known for its impressive climbing abilities, allowing it to escape predators by scaling rocky surfaces
- Additionally, these lizards have a unique defense mechanism where they can flatten their bodies against rocks to become less visible to potential threats.|These lizards are also fascinating for their social behavior; while they are primarily solitary, they can sometimes be seen basking in close proximity to one another during the breeding season, showcasing a temporary tolerance for social interaction
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Length15-25 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, with individuals often occupying their own territories
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (September-November)
- Habitat
- This lizard inhabits rocky outcrops, grasslands, and scrublands, often preferring areas with plenty of hiding spots. It is well-adapted to arid environments and can often be found basking in the sun on warm rocks.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland
- Native Range
- The Spotted Girdled Lizard is native to southern Africa, particularly found in regions of South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- South Africa, Namibia, Botswana
- Diet
- The Spotted Girdled Lizard primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates. It actively forages for food, using its keen eyesight to spot prey.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- solitary, with individuals often occupying their own territories
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 1
VU
LC
15-25 cm
Length
- Coloration
- The lizard exhibits a pattern of dark spots on a lighter background, which helps it blend into its rocky surroundings.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males tend to be slightly larger and more colorful than females
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-6
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat destruction poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and urban development. Additionally, they may be affected by climate change, which alters their natural habitats.
- Predators
- birds of prey, snakes, and larger mammals
- Defense Mechanisms
- When threatened, the Spotted Girdled Lizard can quickly retreat into rock crevices or use its spiny scales to deter predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon