Overview
The Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata) is a large, assertive squamate native to the Mediterranean scrublands and oak woodlands of the Pacific Coast. Named for its rough, armored dorsal scales and broad, prehistoric-looking head that resemble a miniature alligator, this bold, semi-arboreal lizard is famous for its semi-prehensile tail, fierce defensive display, and voracious appetite for garden snails and black widow spiders.
Biology and Physical Characteristics
Elgaria multicarinata possesses an elongated, robust body covered in heavy, keeled scales that create an armor-plated appearance. Its dorsal color varies from olive-grey and yellowish-tan to rich reddish-brown, patterned with dark crossbands that are often highlighted with white scales. Along each flank runs a deep, flexible skin fold that expands to accommodate large meals or developing eggs. Its tail is up to twice the length of its body and is semi-prehensile.
Behavior and Ecology
A deliberate, stealthy stalker, the Southern Alligator Lizard climbs nimbly through dense brush, woodpiles, and low tree branches using its prehensile tail for extra security. When confronted by a predator or curious pet, it opens its mouth wide, hisses aggressively, and delivers a surprisingly powerful, tenacious bite while smearing foul-smelling musk and feces from its vent.
Conservation and Human Impact
Assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Southern Alligator Lizard is abundant throughout California and the Pacific Northwest, adapting remarkably well to suburban backyards and stone retaining walls where it serves as a valuable natural predator of garden pests.
Interesting Factoid
The Southern Alligator Lizard has a semi-prehensile tail that is nearly twice as long as its entire body; it uses its tail like a fifth hand to grip branches while climbing bushes to raid bird nests for eggs.