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What are the Different Types of Flat Lizard?

Sara Schmidt
Sara Schmidt
Sara Schmidt
Sara Schmidt

Bold, bright coloration makes the common flat lizard, a small reptile with nine subspecies, a well-liked animal. The lizard is a rainbow of color, with different hues making up each of its body sections. Scientifically known as the Platysaurus intermedius, the animal lives in southern Africa, and is a member of the Cordylidae family.

Flat lizards are so vividly colored that they almost look like something from a fairy tale. Each subspecies is represented with its own unique array of colors. A male flat lizard might have a blue or green head with a yellow midsection, orange and yellow tail, yellow arms, and a blue underbelly. Female lizards, as well as juveniles of the species, are not as brightly colored. They typically have black scales, brown bellies, and white stripes on their backs.

The blue-tailed skink is a flat lizard.
The blue-tailed skink is a flat lizard.

The lizards live in colonies, some of which can be very large. They prefer weathering, or exfoliating, rocks made from quartzite, granite, or sandstone. Most of these lizards can be found in moist savannahs throughout Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Mpumalanga, Botswana, Malawi, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mozambique.

Each flat lizard's size depends upon its subspecies. The largest flat lizard can grow up to five inches (12 centimeters) in length, while smaller subspecies may only grow up to three inches (seven centimeters). New hatchlings, which hatch in late December to early January, measure up to one and one-half inches (nearly four centimeters) in length.

Hatchlings are laid in communal egg sites. Each flat lizard colony shares one of these sites, which typically exist in a warm rock crevice. A pair of eggs, which are oval-shaped, are usually laid per female flat lizard.

If kept in captivity, flat lizards can live for up to three years. Considered exotic pets, flat rock lizards are the most widely distributed of all Platyasaurus animals. They are moderately priced, and like other lizards as pets such as the gecko, anole, and skink, they require a lizard cage, heating bulb, fresh water, and appropriate food. This food can usually be satisfied through a combination of nutritious store bought lizard food and fresh live insects.

Of the subspecies of flat lizard, rhodesianus is the largest. Some males of this species feature red heads. The nigrescens subspecies has yellow scales, an orange tale, and a black head, while the subniger lizard is largely dark green and features white spots. Other subspecies include the wilhelmi, parvus, iopinus, intermedius, nyasae, and natalensis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a flat lizard?

Flat lizards are a group of vibrantly colored reptiles belonging to the genus Platysaurus, which is part of the family Cordylidae. They are named for their flattened bodies, which help them squeeze into narrow rock crevices to escape predators and regulate their body temperature. These lizards are endemic to southern Africa and are known for their agility and social behavior.

How many species of flat lizards are there?

There are approximately 15 recognized species of flat lizards. Each species has adapted to its specific habitat, which ranges from rocky outcrops to savannas across southern Africa. These species exhibit a variety of patterns and colors, often with males being more brightly colored than females, a trait that is thought to play a role in mating displays and territorial behavior.

What do flat lizards typically eat?

Flat lizards are primarily insectivorous, meaning their diet consists mostly of insects. They are adept at hunting a variety of prey, including beetles, ants, and termites. Their hunting strategy involves both active pursuit and sit-and-wait tactics, where they remain still and ambush unsuspecting insects that come within reach.

Are flat lizards endangered?

Most flat lizard species are not currently classified as endangered. However, they are susceptible to habitat loss and degradation, which can threaten their populations. Conservation efforts are important to ensure their habitats are protected, especially since they have specialized ecological niches and are not widely distributed beyond southern Africa.

Can flat lizards be kept as pets?

While flat lizards are not typically kept as pets, it is possible for enthusiasts to maintain them in captivity with the proper permits and care. They require a habitat that mimics their natural environment, with access to heat, UVB lighting, and plenty of rock structures to climb and hide. However, their specific needs and the fact that they thrive in social groups make them a challenging choice for the average pet owner.

What unique behaviors do flat lizards exhibit?

Flat lizards display a range of interesting behaviors, particularly in their social interactions. They are known for their complex mating rituals, where males perform elaborate displays to attract females. Additionally, they are highly territorial and use visual signals, such as body postures and push-ups, to communicate with other lizards and establish dominance within their social hierarchies.

Sara Schmidt
Sara Schmidt

A graduate of Southeast Missouri State University, Sara has a Master’s Degree in English, which she puts to use writing for AllThingsNature and several magazines, websites, and nonprofit organizations. She has published her own novella, and has other literary projects currently in progress. Sara’s varied interests have also led her to teach children in Spain, tutor college students, run CPR and first aid classes, and organize student retreats.

Learn more...
Sara Schmidt
Sara Schmidt

A graduate of Southeast Missouri State University, Sara has a Master’s Degree in English, which she puts to use writing for AllThingsNature and several magazines, websites, and nonprofit organizations. She has published her own novella, and has other literary projects currently in progress. Sara’s varied interests have also led her to teach children in Spain, tutor college students, run CPR and first aid classes, and organize student retreats.

Learn more...

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    • The blue-tailed skink is a flat lizard.
      The blue-tailed skink is a flat lizard.