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They sometimes roll their bodies as they bite, inflicting severe damage.Īrmadillo lizards are undoubtedly preyed on by a number of vertebrate predators, though their spiny defenses may discourage many potential enemies. In a fight, they can sever digits or small limbs. The jaws of Cordylus cataphractus are extremely powerful. Because of this, the lizard will not part with the tail easily or quickly and tail autotomy is used only as a last resort. But, unlike many other lizards, in Cordylus cataphractus the tail is a necessary part of its unique defensive position. Armadillo lizards have the ability to drop their own tail (autotomy) when in danger, and can grow it back slowly. The head and tail are flattened, allowing it to squeeze into rock crevices. Dark brown infusions on the back are not uncommon. Dorsal color is usually consistent, sometimes having an orange to olive tint on the sides. The body color is a dirty yellowish brown to straw color. The tail is equal to or slightly shorter than the body length. The average snout-vent length is between 75 and 90 mm, with a maximum snout-vent length of 105 mm. Males grow to be larger than females and have more prominent femoral pores. This position protects the soft underside of the lizard, which is its most vulnerable area. Rows of spiny osteodermate scales covering the neck, body, tail, and limbs deter predators from seizing or swallowing these lizards. When threatened, they curl up, grip the tail in their jaws, and form a tight, armored ball, resembling an armadillo. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: vulnerableĪrmadillo lizards are named for their appearance when in a defensive position. State of Michigan List: no special status More of these conservation attempts will ensure the continued survival of this unique species. The results of this one campaign will have lasting impacts on the wild population of armadillo lizards. The result of this awareness campaign was a 45% increase in local residents knowledge and identification of Cordylus cataphractus and 85% of farmers could identify 3 effects of overgrazing as opposed to 48% before the campaign. Presentations about conservation were given, and a giant mascot of Cordylus cataphractus was placed in its natural habitat. Targeting 24,000 community members, posters and fact sheets were distributed that highlighted threats to the animals that are affected by this illegal trade. In rural Namaqualand (a biodiversity hotspot located along the Atlantic coast of South Africa and Namibia), Rare Pride Campaign Manager Morne Farmer tries to spread awareness of the illegal pet trade affecting armadillo lizards. Local community involvement will be needed to conserve this species. Although armadillo lizards are still common in parts of their range, populations will not remain stable if current trends persist. This species is threatened by illegal collection for pet trade as well as habitat degradation, and has locally declined in numbers.
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Cordylus cataphractus is listed as "vulnerable" in the Red Data Book of South Africa and is protected by law.