Giant Plated Lizard
Name
Giant Plated Lizard [Gerrhosaurus validus]
Class
Reptilia
Order
Squamata
Family
Gerrhosauridae
Subspecies
Gerrhosaurus validus maltzahni and Gerrhosaurus validus validus
Length_F
200 - 250 mm
Length_M
200 - 250 mm
Description
The Giant Plated Lizard is a large lizard with a flattened head and body. In adults, the back is dark brown to black. The throat is dirty white, and the belly is light brown. Juveniles are black, with a distinct series of yellow spots on the back and bars on the flanks.
Distribution
The Giant Plated Lizard is found in the northern regions of the subcontinent.
Breeding
The females lay 2 - 5 large, oval eggs in soil-filled rock crevices in midsummer.
Diet
Flowers, leaves, figs and other soft fruit, but will also eat small lizards and has been known to feed on baby tortoises.
