Saw Scaled Curly-tailed Lizard

The Saw Scaled Curly-tailed Lizard (Leiocephalus carinatus coryi) is a subspecies of the Cuban or Northern Curly-tailed Lizard (Leiocephalus carinatus). The Saw Scaled Curly-tailed Lizard is native to the Bahamas, particularly to the Great Bahama Bank. They are also often found in Bimini, especially the northern end. In the early 1940's, the Saw Scaled Lizard (and other subspecies of the Cuban or Northern Curly-tailed Lizard) were introduced into Florida's southeastern coast. Over the past 60 years these lizards have rapidly spread, although they are not considered an invasive species of southern Florida. Saw Scaled Curly-tailed Lizards are common, and are not listed as endangered or as needing protection from international trade.

Saw Scaled Curly-tailed Lizards get their name from the way they will rapidly twitch their tails. However, the most distinctive feature of the lizard is, of course, its curling tail.

The Saw Scaled Curly-tailed Lizard is an alert, fast lizard, but may bury itself in the sand when it feels threatened. The average lifespan of a curly tailed lizard is approximately 10 years. The Saw Scaled Curly-tailed Lizard is ground dwelling, although it can climb. They are often found basking on loose rubble or rocks near the ocean, but are also at home in more densely populated areas, such as the city. The Saw Scaled Curly-tailed Lizard is also omnivorous.

See the Curly-Tailed Lizard for additional information.

Saw Scaled Curly-tailed Lizard Classification