Large Psammodromus
ExploreReptiles
Large Psammodromus
Psammodromus algirus
The Large Psammodromus is a small lizard that loves to bask in the sun. It has a long body and can run really fast on sandy ground, making it a fun little creature to spot!
Habitat: Desert
Appearance
The Large Psammodromus is a slender lizard with a long tail, typically sporting a brown or olive-green body. It often displays a distinct light stripe on each flank and can have reddish or orange sides, especially during its breeding season. Its scales are keeled, giving its skin a slightly rough, textured appearance.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassSquamataOrderLacertiliaFamilyLacertidaeGenusPsammodromus
Category
ReptilesRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
It uses its long, flicking tongue to 'taste' the air and find yummy insects!
Its scientific name, *algirus*, refers to Algeria, where it was first described!
Males flash bright orange or red sides to impress females during mating season!
This lizard loves basking in the sun to warm up, just like a tiny sunbather!
Special abilities
Ability
Desert Disguise
Large Psammodromus has earthy coloration that helps them blend perfectly with sandy and rocky terrains, making it hard for predators to spot them.
Ability
Tail Trick
Large Psammodromus can shed its tail if grabbed by a predator because its tail has special break points, allowing it to escape unharmed.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 15-25 cm
- Weight
- 0.005-0.02 kg
- Lifespan
- 3-5 years
- Top Speed
- 20 km/h
- Clutch Size
- 2-11
- Incubation
- 40-70 days
Diet & Feeding
This lizard enjoys munching on various small insects and spiders found in its habitat.
Primary Foods
- crickets
- grasshoppers
- beetles
- spiders
- ants
Foraging Methods
- Pursuit
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
Common Buzzard
Buteo buteo
A common bird of prey that hunts small reptiles.
eaten by
Montpellier Snake
Malpolon monspessulanus
A large snake that preys on lizards in its range.
eats
_Tettigonia_viridissima_on_Avena_fatua.jpg&width=800)
Great Green Bush-cricket
Tettigonia viridissima
A common insect often caught by these lizards.
eats
Red Wood Ant
Formica rufa
Ants are a frequent snack for many small lizards.
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Camouflaged
Camouflaged describes organisms that possess coloring or patterns that allow them to blend into their environment.
Insectivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet primarily consists of insects and other small invertebrates.
Desert
Desert habitats are arid regions characterized by extremely low precipitation and often extreme temperatures, supporting specialized flora and fauna.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Speedster
This trait identifies organisms that exhibit exceptional swiftness in movement for hunting, escape, or travel.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Always watch from a distance and don't try to catch lizards; they are best left in their homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Large Psammodromus?
15-25 cm
How much does Large Psammodromus weigh?
0.005-0.02 kg
How long does Large Psammodromus live?
3-5 years
How fast can Large Psammodromus move?
20 km/h
What does Large Psammodromus eat?
This lizard enjoys munching on various small insects and spiders found in its habitat.
Where is Large Psammodromus usually found?
Desert
How does Large Psammodromus hunt?
Pursuit and Foraging
How many eggs does Large Psammodromus lay?
2-11
Snap Map
Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.
Loading map…
Recent Snaps
Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.
