Bushveld lizard

Introduction: The Bushveld lizard (Heliobolis lugubris) is closely related to sand and desert lizards. There is only 1 species in this small genus in Namibia. They are medium-sized creatures, diurnal and terrestrial in nature. They are often observed on sparsely vegetated, sandy plains, sprinting from bush to bush.

Distribution: Throughout Namibia less for the Namib Desert and Orange River. Can be observed in the Swakopmund and Cape Fria area of the Skeleton Coast.

Diet: Small insects especially termites.

Colouring: Adults have a light grey-brown to red-brown back with rather indistinct, dark crossbars and 3 pale dorsal stripes. The tail is a weak pale brown and the belly white.

Breeding: Females lay 4 to 6 oval, soft-shelled eggs, in a small enclosure dug in loose sand. Eggs hatch December to March

Size: SVL min 50 to 60mm. Max SVL 65mm.