Stenocercus trachycephalus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stenocercus trachycephalus |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
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Stenocercus
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| Species: |
trachycephalus
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The Stenocercus trachycephalus, also known as Duméril's whorltail iguana, is a cool type of lizard. It belongs to a group of lizards called the Tropiduridae family. You can find this special lizard living only in Colombia, a country in South America.
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About Duméril's Whorltail Iguana
Duméril's whorltail iguana is a fascinating reptile. It's named after Auguste Duméril, a famous French scientist who first described it in 1851. These lizards are part of the Stenocercus genus, which includes many different kinds of whorltail iguanas.
Where Do They Live?
These iguanas are found in Colombia. This means they are endemic to Colombia, which is a fancy way of saying they naturally live only there and nowhere else in the world. They are often found in specific habitats within Colombia, like forests or rocky areas, where they can find food and stay safe.
What Do They Look Like?
Like other lizards, Duméril's whorltail iguanas have scales covering their bodies. They are known for their unique "whorltail," which refers to the way their tail might look or feel. Lizards use their tails for many things, like balance, storing fat, or even as a defense mechanism.
What Do They Eat?
Most lizards, including many iguanas, are insectivores. This means they love to munch on insects like crickets, beetles, and spiders. They are important parts of their ecosystem because they help control insect populations.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Lizards like the Duméril's whorltail iguana reproduce by laying eggs. The female lizard will find a safe spot, often underground or in a hidden area, to lay her eggs. After a period of incubation, the baby lizards hatch from the eggs, looking like tiny versions of their parents. They grow and mature over time, eventually becoming adults ready to reproduce themselves.
Conservation Status
The Duméril's whorltail iguana is currently listed as "Least Concern" (LC) by the IUCN. This means that, for now, their population is stable and they are not considered to be at high risk of extinction. However, it's always important to protect their habitats to make sure they continue to thrive.
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