Lialis is a fascinating creature that's native to Australia and Asia. It's a type of skink, a small to medium-sized lizard.
Lialis is often referred to as the snake-lizard due to its elongated body shape, which resembles a snake. This unique appearance allows it to slither through tight spaces.
Found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts, Lialis is an adaptable species.
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Classification and Description
The Lialis genus is made up of only two species, which are part of the family Pygopodidae.
These legless lizards are found in Australia, New Guinea, and some nearby islands, with a limited distribution.
Snake Lizards have been described as "legless geckos" due to their similarity to that group.
They actually have remnants of their rear legs, which appear as small skin flaps, hence the name "Flap-Footed Lizard".
Burton's Legless Lizard, Lialis burtonis, is one of the two species and is even more snake-like than the Pygopus.
On a similar theme: Philippine Sailfin Lizard
The external open ear and fleshy tongue of Burton's Legless Lizard indicate its true affinity with lizards.
The colouring of Lialis species is quite unique, with darker surfaces often being below, instead of above, as usual.
Specimens found in Victoria are generally smaller than those from warmer latitudes.
The Mallee Scrub and other warmer parts of Victoria are home to the Lialis species.
Habitat and Hunting
New Guinea Snake Lizards are masters of stealth, remaining motionless as prey approaches before striking with lightning speed.
Their hunting strategy is finely tuned, with a focus on snagging prey at the neck and throat region, often resulting in a swift kill.
In the wild, Snake Lizards have been observed taking quite large animals, including small lizards that are swallowed alive and larger ones that are suffocated until they cease moving.
The long scissor-like jaws of the Snake Lizard play a crucial role in retaining their grip on prey until it expires, often exerting extra pressure in response to the prey's movements.
The specific behavior of New Guinea Snake Lizards, as observed by the author, is that they grasp anoles and geckos only in the neck-throat region, regardless of size.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prey of the Burton's legless lizard?
The Burton's legless lizard primarily feeds on lizards, with skinks being its main prey item. Its diet also includes other legless lizards and geckos.
How big are the Burton's legless lizards?
Burton's legless lizards can grow up to 30cm in length, with females typically being longer than males. Their slender bodies make them a striking sight.
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