Anguis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Anguis |
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| Anguis fragilis | |
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Anguinae
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Anguis
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Anguis cephalonnicus |
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Anguis is a group of amazing lizards often called slowworms or blindworms. Even though they don't have legs, they are definitely lizards, not snakes! People often mistake them for snakes because of their long, smooth bodies. Slowworms are part of a larger family of lizards called Anguidae.
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What Makes Slow Worms Special?
Slowworms are quite unique in the reptile world. Unlike most lizards, they have lost their legs over many years of evolution. This helps them move easily through grass and under rocks. They are very shy creatures and spend most of their time hidden away.
Are Slow Worms Really Blind?
Despite being called "blindworms," slowworms can see perfectly well! Their eyes are small and have eyelids, which snakes do not have. This is one easy way to tell a slowworm from a snake. They use their sight to find food and avoid predators.
How Are Slow Worms Different from Snakes?
It's easy to mix up slowworms and snakes, but there are key differences.
- Slowworms have eyelids, so they can blink. Snakes do not have eyelids.
- Slowworms can drop their tail if they feel threatened. This is a common lizard defense. Snakes do not do this.
- Slowworms have a flat, notched tongue. Snakes have a forked tongue.
- Slowworms move much slower than most snakes. They are quite gentle.
Where Do Slow Worms Live?
Slowworms are found across Europe and parts of Asia. They like to live in gardens, woodlands, and grasslands. You might find them hiding under logs, stones, or in compost heaps. They prefer damp places where they can stay cool and find food.
What Do Slow Worms Eat?
Slowworms are carnivores, meaning they eat other animals. Their favorite foods include slugs, snails, and worms. They also eat insects and other small creatures. They are very helpful in gardens because they control pests!
How Do Slow Worms Protect Themselves?
When a slowworm feels scared, it has a clever trick. It can break off its tail! The tail wiggles for a while, distracting the predator. This gives the slowworm time to escape to safety. A new tail will grow back, but it won't be as long or as perfect as the original.
Different Kinds of Slow Worms
There are a few different types, or species, of slowworms in the Anguis group.
- Anguis fragilis: This is the most common slowworm, found in many parts of Europe.
- Anguis cephalonnicus: Also known as the Peloponnese Slow Worm, this species lives mainly in Greece.
These different species look quite similar but have small differences in their features or where they live.
