YELLOW-THROATED PLATED LIZARD
Gerrhosaurus flavigularis
DESCRIPTION
The Yellow-Throated Plated Lizard, known scientifically as Gerrhosaurus flavigularis, is a robust lizard characterized by its distinctive yellow throat and patterned body. It typically exhibits a combination of brown and gray scales, which provide effective camouflage in its natural habitat. This species is primarily terrestrial and is known for its burrowing behavior, often seeking refuge in crevices or under rocks.
FUN FACTS
- The Yellow-Throated Plated Lizard is known for its unique ability to adapt to harsh environments, making it a fascinating subject for studies on resilience in reptiles
- Additionally, its vibrant coloration not only serves as a warning to potential predators but also plays a role in attracting mates during the breeding season
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight200-300 g
Average Length20-30 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (September-November)
- Habitat
- This lizard prefers dry, rocky environments and can often be found in scrublands and savannas. It is well-adapted to arid conditions, utilizing its burrowing skills to escape extreme temperatures.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Dry Forest
- Native Range
- The Yellow-Throated Plated Lizard is native to parts of southern Africa, particularly in regions such as Namibia and Botswana.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Namibia, Botswana
- Diet
- The Yellow-Throated Plated Lizard is an omnivore, feeding on a variety of plant matter as well as insects and small invertebrates. Its diet can vary based on seasonal availability of food sources.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, fruits, and leaves
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
VU
LC
200-300 g
Weight
20-30 cm
Length
- Coloration
- brown and gray with a distinctive yellow throat
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males tend to be larger and more brightly colored than females
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (September-November)
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 agricultural expansion and urban development. Additionally, climate change may impact their arid habitats.
- Predators
- birds of prey, snakes, and larger lizards
- Defense Mechanisms
- The Yellow-Throated Plated Lizard can flatten its body and display its bright throat to deter predators, and it is also capable of quick burrowing to escape threats.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon