Lava lizards (Tropidurus) live on most of the main islands of the Galapagos archipelago, though they differ somewhat in size, color and behavior from island to island. Seven subspecies have been identified, all of which are endemic to the Galapagos. |
|
They are small creatures, growing to no more than a foot in length, and inhabit rocky areas of the islands.
There they feed on beetles, spiders, ants, snails and other insects.
The male Lava Lizard may have two, three or more mates in a harem, and they can be very aggressive in defending their territory.
These guys will stand high on all fours, usually sideways to their opponent to maximize their apparent size, extend the scales on their backs, and bob up and down.
The display is usually seen between two males. One scientist has determined that specific aggressive postures are specific to each island on which they occur.
Lava lizards live up to 10 years, a relatively long time for such little beasts. They are omnivores, but dine mostly on insects. |
|
|
