Infraorder Iguania Rank Species | Phylum Chordata Suborder Sauria orLacertilia Family Crotaphytidae Higher classification Gambelia | |
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Similar Gambelia, Baja California collared li, Reptile, Sandstone night lizard, Crotaphytinae | ||
The Baja California leopard lizard (Gambelia copeii ) is a species of lizard.
Contents
Etymology
The specific name, copeii, is in honor of American herpetologist and paleontologist Edward Drinker Cope.
Description
G. copeii is between 8 and 14 cm (3.1 and 5.5 in) long, and has a smoky gray color and darker gray or black dorsal spots, edged in a lighter shade. The dorsal pattern appears mottled or occelated. There are light crossbars on the dorsum, and light gray or white on the venter. It has small granular scales. The large head is distinct from the neck, and the lining of mouth and throat is purplish-black. Juvenile lizards are similar to adults, but have more distinct banding across the dorsum. Females develop red-orange blotches on the ventral side during breeding season. Males have femoral pores.
Biology
The Baja California leopard lizard is an uncommon species. They are powerful bipedal runners. Adults can inflict a painful bite. They prefer chaparral habitats with an open understory.