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Southern Alligator Lizard
Elgaria multicarinata
39.7732, -121.867
Field Notes
Description:
This lizard was about 10 inches long and can get up to 16 + inches long, nose to tail. After some research I discovered the differences in alligator lizards, other than some body markings, are their eyes. The southern alligator lizard has yellow eyes and the northern alligator lizard has dark or black eyes. They have a long prehensile tail that is up to twice the length of its body. Sides have distinct fold. Back and tail have cross bands.
Habitat:
Like most cold blooded animals, alligator lizards prefer a warm climate. When I found this one, he was lying on a concrete walkway in the evening trying to soak up some heat. The walkway goes right next to a large flower garden which is where he ran off to after I snapped a few pictures. They are known to climb trees for food using their prehensile tail. They can be found in open woodland, grassland and moist foothills.
Notes:
They are a cranky lizard and will try to bite if picked up but their teeth are very small and I have never had one draw blood YET. Because of their head and body shape and short legs, they are often mistaken as a snake at first glance. They will eat just about anything they can fit into their mouth.
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