Liolaemus darwinii facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Liolaemus darwinii |
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| Genus: |
Liolaemus
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| Species: |
darwinii
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The Darwin's tree iguana (scientific name: Liolaemus darwinii) is a type of lizard. It belongs to the Liolaemidae family. This special lizard only lives in Argentina.
Contents
Why it's Called Darwin's Tree Iguana
This lizard is named darwinii to honor Charles Darwin. He was a famous English naturalist. Darwin wrote a very important book called On the Origin of Species.
Where Darwin's Tree Iguana Lives
Darwin's tree iguana likes to live in shrubland. This is an area with many small bushes and shrubs. You can find them from sea level up to about 3,000 meters (almost 10,000 feet) high.
What Darwin's Tree Iguana Looks Like
Male Darwin's tree iguanas are brown. They have two bright yellow stripes on their backs. These stripes run along each side of their spine. Female iguanas are usually just brown.
What Darwin's Tree Iguana Eats
This lizard enjoys eating different kinds of insects. They mostly eat insects that are 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) long or smaller. Their diet includes beetles and locusts.
How Darwin's Tree Iguana Behaves
Darwin's tree iguanas are diurnal. This means they are active during the day. When it's night or when the weather is cold, they dig burrows underground. These lizards prefer to be alone and are very territorial. Both males and females will fight to protect their living space.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Darwin's tree iguanas are oviparous. This means they lay eggs. They usually mate in the middle of February. About eight months later, the female lays her eggs. When the baby iguanas hatch, they are about 5 centimeters (2 inches) long. A female typically lays between 10 and 12 eggs at a time.
See also
In Spanish: Liolaemus darwinii para niños
