Giant Plated Lizard

Name

Giant Plated Lizard [Gerrhosaurus validus]

Class

Reptilia

Order

Squamata

Family

Gerrhosauridae

Subspecies

Gerrhosaurus validus maltzahni and Gerrhosaurus validus validus

Length_F

200 - 250 mm

Length_M

200 - 250 mm

Description

The Giant Plated Lizard is a large lizard with a flattened head and body. In adults, the back is dark brown to black. The throat is dirty white, and the belly is light brown. Juveniles are black, with a distinct series of yellow spots on the back and bars on the flanks.

Distribution

The Giant Plated Lizard is found in the northern regions of the subcontinent.

Breeding

The females lay 2 - 5 large, oval eggs in soil-filled rock crevices in midsummer.

Diet

Flowers, leaves, figs and other soft fruit, but will also eat small lizards and has been known to feed on baby tortoises.
Kruger National Park - South African Safari