Most of the approximately 50 species of plated lizards are found in South Africa. Around 15 different species live in Madagascar.
Plated lizards have an elongated, slightly flattened body. Their tail is somewhat brittle and cannot regenerate – unlike, for example, the tails of our native lizards.
The largest species of shield-tailed lizard grows to a length of almost 90 cm. In Madagascar, it is known as the ‘Petit Caiman’ (little crocodile).
The Madagascar plated lizard lives in a wide variety of habitats, ranging from rainforest to dry, open landscapes, field margins and gardens. It is primarily a ground-dweller, but occasionally climbs onto rocks and tree trunks.
As a skilful hunter, it prefers to catch small arthropods. It also enjoys eating sweet, ripe fruit.
In settlements, plated lizards are often found near rubbish pits, where they feast on banana and mango scraps. As well as various birds, their main natural predator is the Madagascar hook-nosed snake, a non-venomous, robust snake.
Taxonomy
Gerrhosauridae, genus Zonosaurus (17 species)
Habitat
tropical rainforest, open landscapes
Behaviour and ecology
sunbathing during the day, buried in the ground at night
