| Texas alligator lizard | |
|---|---|
| Texas Alligator Lizard, Gerrhonotus infernalis | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Sauria |
| Family: | Anguidae |
| Subfamily: | Gerrhonotinae |
| Genus: | Gerrhonotus |
| Species: | G. infernalis |
| Binomial name | |
| Gerrhonotus infernalis Baird, 1859 |
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The Texas alligator lizard (Gerrhonotus infernalis) is a species of alligator lizard in the subfamily Gerrhonotinae.
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It is found in the central region of the American state of Texas, and south into Mexico.
The Texas alligator lizard is a medium-sized lizard, attaining a maximum length of approximately 24 to 25 inches. They are the largest lizards in Texas, and one of the largest alligator lizards in the world. They have a flat, wedge-shaped head. They are generally a yellow-brown color, often with darker brown and white checker patterning on the dorsal surface, and uniformly light colored, white or grey on the ventral surface. Their scales are very stiff and plate-like. They have short limbs, and a tail that can fall off to distract a potential predator, which will regrow in time.
Texas alligator lizards are relatively slow, diurnal lizards, with quite good vision. They are often found on rocky hillsides, where they hide amongst the stones or in limestone crevices. Their primary diet is insects and other invertebrates, but may sometimes prey on nestling birds or rodents. Not generally aggressive, but they may bite if handled. Considered to be poisonous by many cultures.
Breeding occurs year round, sometimes multiple clutches of eggs are laid per year. Females will often stay near the nesting site to protect it, but there is no parental care once the young alligator lizards hatch. The young are generally have more striking markings, and are only about 3–4 inches in length.