Description
The Northern Alligator Lizard is olive brown or gray
with a few or many small dark spots. It has dark longitudinal
stripes on the belly. There is a prominent fold of skin on each
side of the body, something common to all species in this family.
Alligator Lizards can grow to 25 cm in total length, counting the
tail which makes up approximately half of the length.
Confusing Species
The only other lizard found in British Columbia is the
Western Skink which has a broad brown
stripe down the back with a whitish stripe on each side. The tails
of the juveniles are bright blue.
Distribution
The Northern Alligator Lizard occurs across much of
southern British Columbia, from west of the mountains to Vancouver
Island. To the south it is found along the coast to California.
Habitat
Northern Alligator Lizards prefer open wooded areas and
sometimes grassland areas. They are often found under bark or
rocks.
Reproduction
Mating occurs in the spring and females give birth to
live young 7-10 weeks later. One female can give birth to up to 15
young, although half this number is more common.
Natural history
The Northern Alligator Lizard is active at cooler
temperatures than most other lizards, which probably explains its
presence in Canada. It is carnivorous, feeding on insects, spiders
and snails. The Northern Alligator Lizard is extremely wary and
darts for cover at any sign of danger. If attacked, the lizard's
tail will break off at a fracture plane. The twitching tail
distracts the would-be preadator while the lizard escapes. A new
tail is eventually re-grown.
Conservation Concerns
This species is widespread in BC and is considered to
be not at risk.
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