Kingdom Animalia Order Squamata Family Teiidae Scientific name Cnemidophorus laredoensis Rank Species | Phylum Chordata Suborder Sauria Genus Cnemidophorus Higher classification Cnemidophorus | |
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Similar Cnemidophorus, Teiidae, Little striped whiptail, Reptile, Common Checkered Whiptail | ||
The Laredo Striped Whiptail (Cnemidophorus laredoensis) is a species of lizard found in the southern United States, in Texas, and northern Mexico in Coahuila and Tamaulipas. Some sources believe it to be the result of extensive hybridization between the Texas Spotted Whiptail, Cnemidophorus gularis, and the Six-lined Racerunner, Cnemidophorus sexlineatus. It is one of many lizard species known to be parthenogenic.
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Description
The Laredo Striped Whiptail grows from 6 to 11 inches in length. It has an overall color of dark green or dark brown, with 7 yellow or white stripes that run from head to tail, and a white underside. They are thin bodied, with a long tail.
Behavior
Like other species of whiptail lizard, the Laredo Striped Whiptail is diurnal and insectivorous. They are wary, energetic, and fast moving, darting for cover if approached. Its preferred habitat is areas with sandy soils and sparse vegetation. They are often found in cultivated fields and pasture land. The species reproduces through parthenogenesis, the female lays up to four unfertilized eggs in mid summer, which hatch in approximately six weeks.