REPTILIA: SQUAMATA: CORDYLIDAE: Cordylus

Cordylus giganteus Smith, 1844

Sungazer

Photo by Dr. Robert Sprackland, taken at the Frankfurt Zoo.

Range: South Africa, in rocky habitats.

Diagnosis:

Description:

Natural History: Sungazers are rock-dwelling lizards that reside in arid habitats. While basking on exposed rocks, they often curl the back into a posture that makes the lizards look like they are staring at the sky (see photo above)--hence the name "sungazer."

Reproduction:

Taxonomy & Relationships:

Variation:

Additional Comments: This is an endangered species, and its habitats in South Africa are in danger of destruction and human disturbance. Though well-studied because of their endangered status, they are one of the few members of the family that have not yet been bred in captivity.

Though not yet bred in captivity, sungazers are remarkably hardy, and long-lived in zoos. So far, several specimens have survived in excess of 25 years.

Type Specimen:

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