Xenosauridae – Knob-scaled lizards
Very sensitive to temperature changes and have adapted to regulate their body temperature by shifting between sun and shade
A small family of reptiles primarily found in Mexico and Central America, extending into parts of Guatemala and Honduras. These lizards are especially notable for their distinctive scales and robust body structure, which adapt them superbly to their rugged, often rocky habitats.
The most striking feature of knob-scaled lizards is, as their name suggests, the unique, knob-like scales that cover their bodies. These scales are not smooth but rather have a rough texture that provides excellent camouflage, mimicking the appearance of the mossy stones and lichen-covered tree bark that make up their natural environment. This rugged skin helps protect them from rough terrain and also from predators by breaking up their body outline.
Knob-scaled lizards are medium-sized, generally ranging from 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in) in length. They have strong, stocky bodies and relatively short limbs, which make them adept climbers on rocky outcrops and within crevices where they often reside. Their coloration typically includes various shades of brown, gray, and green, which blend seamlessly into the forest floor and rocky landscapes they inhabit.
These lizards are solitary and territorial creatures, with each individual maintaining a specific range that they defend against others of the same species. They are primarily diurnal and active during the day, when they can be found basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature. Despite their slow-moving appearance, they are capable of quick bursts of speed when threatened or while catching prey.
The diet of knob-scaled lizards primarily consists of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates, though they are known to consume small amounts of plant material occasionally. This omnivorous diet is typical for many lizards, providing them with the necessary nutrients for survival and reproduction.
