Just when we think we’ve seen it all, Mother Nature surprises us to present us with a beautiful creation. If you have ever seen “Games of Thrones” you will surely think that these armadillo lizards are a perfect miniature version of the dragons from the series. A unique creation worthy of admiration to remind us that reality far surpasses fiction.
Its scientific name is Cordyluz catapharactus.
These beautiful creatures are experts in defense despite not having a large size, their body is covered with robust scales and spines that allow them to defend themselves against large predators.
Their stomach is the weakest and least protected part of their body , therefore, when they feel threatened they curl up and bite their tail, marking a self-defense position.
They can be kept rolled up for up to an hour.
They are native to southern Africa , they are found in desert or semi-desert places, these small lizards spend most of their time in places or corners of rocks .
They have developed incredible abilities to protect themselves from the weather and predators in the area. Armadillo lizards, like most of their species, enjoy sunbathing, but unlike other reptiles they do not lay eggs .
Its main predators are snakes, birds of prey and mongooses.
They survive by feeding on termites and small insects . Because they are so adorable and bear a great resemblance to miniature dragons, they are currently threatened.
Their numbers have been reduced due to illegal hunting and the desire of many people to keep them as pets.
They can only grow up to 10 centimeters long.
Although visually they may have a fearsome appearance, in reality they are very docile and excessively tender . When they are in a dangerous situation, they often prefer to flee than face the enemy.
To feed, they must travel up to 18 meters , a fairly long distance in relation to their small body.
They can live up to 10 years.
Males by nature are very territorial , something that intensifies when mating season arrives.
Its curious appearance attracts the attention of all reptile lovers.
These have more prominent femoral pores unlike the females. They give birth to one or two babies a year , their gestation period lasts between six and eight months.
Its tail is flattened as is its head.
Only in very rare cases can a female last up to a year pregnant if she feels that her offspring is in danger . Something extraordinary and moving in reptiles.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature has declared this species of reptile as vulnerable , since in recent years it has suffered a significant decline in its population due to the collection of specimens as pets.
Please, let us be conscious beings and contemplate these creatures in their natural habitat. Let’s make it possible for more people to enjoy this cute miniature version of dragons. Share!
