Namaqua sand lizard

Introduction: The Namaqua sand lizard (Pedioplanis namaquensis) is a small, slender creature with a long tail. They are one of the fastest of lizards which are active throughout the day, dashing and darting over open, sparsely vegetated sand gravel flats. They remain dormant in their burrows in the winter dug at the base of bushes.

Distribution: Throughout Namibia less for regions of the Skeleton Coast, south central Namib Desert and north-eastern Namibia, in regions typical of an arid savannah and semi-desert habitat.

Diet: Forages widely for small insects.

Colouring: Black with 4 white stripes, brown legs with white spots, a white belly and a pinkish-brown tail.

Breeding: Females lay between 3 to 5 eggs in November.

Size: SVL 40 to 50mm. Max SVL 53mm.