Southern alligator lizard

Southern Alligator Lizard
File:Sandiegoalligatorlizard.jpg
Conservation status
Least Concern
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Reptilia
Order:	Squamata
Family:	Anguidae
Genus:	Elgaria
Species:	E. multicarinata
Binomial name
Elgaria multicarinata Blainville, 1835

The Southern alligator lizard (Elgaria multicarinata) is a lizard native to the Pacific coast of North America. It is common throughout Southern California and can be found in both grasslands and urban areas. Several subspecies can be distinguished, including the San Diego alligator lizard (E. multicarinata webbii).

The southern alligator lizard has a long prehensile tail, up to twice the length of its body. Like many lizards, however, it can drop its tail if attacked, possibly giving it a chance to flee; the tail will regenerate, but will never be as long or richly colored as the original. Individuals with intact tails can reach up to about 50 cm in total length.

The lizards can frequently be found near human habitation and are notable for their fearless self-defense; they will show no hesitation in inflicting a painful (though quite harmless) nip if handled. They are not difficult to catch or keep in captivity, however, and make suitable and interesting pets. They will thrive and even breed if fed on small insects such as crickets supplemented with suitable vitamins and minerals.

Gallery

• Southern Alligator Lizard, West Los Angeles
  Southern Alligator Lizard, West Los Angeles
• San Diego Alligator Lizard in tall grass
  San Diego Alligator Lizard in tall grass
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  Southern Alligator Lizard, Central Valley

See also

• Northern Alligator Lizard

References

• "Elgaria multicarinata". Integrated Taxonomic Information System. 6 February. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= and |year= / |date= mismatch (help)

External links

• Western Ecological Research Center: Elgaria multicarinatus, the Southern Alligator Lizard