Diploglossidae – Galliwasps
When threatened, some can stiffen and straighten their bodies, making themselves rigid to make it more difficult for predators to swallow them
These lizards are unique for several reasons, from their appearance to their behavior. Galliwasps are typically robust and elongated, with bodies that are more substantial and less sleek than those of many other lizard species. This sturdy build helps them in their natural habitats, which range from forest floors to mountainous regions.
One of the most notable features of galliwasps is their scales, which are often keeled or ridged, giving them a somewhat rugged and textured appearance. This not only provides them with a bit of armor against predators but also helps them blend into their natural surroundings, like the leaf litter and soil of the forests where they live. They come in a variety of colors, usually earth tones like browns and greens, which further aids their camouflage.
Galliwasps can be found primarily in Central America and the Caribbean, with a few species venturing into South America. Their distribution makes them a key part of many tropical and subtropical ecosystems, where they often play the role of both predator and prey. As predators, they feed on a variety of insects, smaller animals, and occasionally plant material, making them important for controlling pest populations and maintaining ecological balance.
Despite their tough exterior, galliwasps are secretive and tend to avoid human interaction, which makes them quite mysterious to scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. They are mostly terrestrial, meaning they spend a lot of their time on the ground, though some species are also known to climb trees and bushes when needed. They are excellent burrowers as well. Many galliwasps will dig into the soil to create a safe place to hide from predators or to rest during the hottest parts of the day.
