Alligator lizards, genus Elgaria, are members of the family Anguidae, a family of lizards found in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Large bony scales, a large head on an elongated body and powerful jaws probably give the lizards their common name. They are characterized by a slim body with short limbs and long tail. The tail can reach twice the length of its body if it has never been broken off and regenerated. Color is brown, grey, olive, or brown, above, with a broad band of olive-gray to brown down the middle of the back, sometimes with spots, and with darker sides mottled with dark spots. Typically there are no black scales wiith white tips on the sides. Markings do not form distinct bands or vertical bars.
Ten Facts about Northern Alligator Lizard
- Adults reach a snout-to-vent length of about 10 cm (4 inches) and a total length of roughly 25 cm (10 in).
- An alligator lizard may drop its tail, leaving it writhing on the ground. The writhing tail is intended to distract a predator.
- Active during the day. Inactive during cold periods in winter.
- Moves with a snake-like undulating motion. A good swimmer, sometimes diving into the water to escape by swimming away.
- Mating season occurs from April through July, pending weather conditions.
- The alligator lizard has this common name cause it looks and acts like a small alligator.
- Their first defense is to flee and hide. If caught, a lizard may release a smelly mix of feces and musk, bite, or even 'release' (autotomize) its tail.
- During the summer, most Alligator Lizards can be found basking in sunny areas or soaking up heat under warm rocks.
- These lizards usually are found in groups; however, there is little interaction between individuals.
- After mating, the young develop inside their mother's body.
