Sauria (Lizards)

Lizards are a widespread group in the order Squamata (excluding snakes and amphibians) consisting of around 7,000 species, ranging across all continents except Antarctica. Although this group exclude snakes and amphibians, some lizards are more closely related to these two groups. Lizard size range from the tiny few cm long chameleons and geckos to the 3m long Komodo dragon.

Many lizards are quadrupedal, running with a strong side-to-side motion, although some lineages have lost their legs partially or entirely and have long snake-like bodies. Some lizards, such as those from the genus Draco are capable gliding “flight” using membranes that may be extended to create “wings” (patagia), formed by an enlarged set of ribs. Lizards are also often territorial, males often fighting off other males and signaling with bright colours to attract mates and to intimidate rivals.

Lizards are mainly carnivorous, often insectivorous or hunting larger prey in the case of monitor lizards. Some lizards are also primarily herbivorous in the case of Iguanas.

Lizards have a variety of antipredator adaptations, from venom (gila monsters and beaded dragons), camouflage (chameleons, geckos…), reflex bleeding (horned lizards) and the use of sacrificial decoys (geckos).