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Home > Lizards > Southern Alligator Lizard

Southern Alligator Lizard

Southern alligator lizard is a species of lizard found along the Pacific coast of North America. It is one of the most common species of lizard in North America. The species is known for its aggressive self-defense.



    Kingdom Animalia
    Phylum Chordata
    Class Reptilia
    Order Squamata
    Family Anguidae
    Genus Elgaria
    Scientific Name Elgaria multicarinata


    Length Around 30 cm
    Color Above is brown, gray, yellowish or green often with uneven red patches on the middle of the back; sides, back and tail contain dark bands with adjacent white spots
    Distribution Washington state to Baja California
    Habitat Grassland, chaparral, open forest, suburban and urban areas
    Diet Arthropods, lizards, slugs, small mammals, sometimes young birds and eggs
    Hibernation Fact Hibernates during winter months in rock crevices, wooden boards
    Predators Snakes, bobcats, coyotes, hawks
    Breeding Season April-May
    Mode of Reproduction Oviparous (egg laying)
    Clutch Size Up to 20 eggs
    Incubation Period Around 55 days
    Average Lifespan 10 to 15 years
    IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern

    Southern Alligator Lizard Pictures Gallery

    Published on October 18th 2016 by under Lizards. Article was last reviewed on 4th June 2019.

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