Blanford's rock agama

The Blanford's rock agama (Psammophilus blanfordanus) is a lizard species endemic to Peninsular India, belonging to the family Agamidae. It is distinguished from its congener, P. dorsalis, by its distribution primarily to the east and by unique male coloration during the breeding season.

Description and Habitat

This species is typically found on rocks and hills. Adult males undergo a striking transformation during the breeding season, developing a scarlet or red head and anterior body, while their posterior parts turn nearly black. This contrasts with the olive-brown coloration of females and young, which are often spotted or marbled with brown. Young lizards may exhibit distinct lozenge-shaped dark brown spots on their back and tail. Physically, Blanford's rock agama can be identified by a deeper fold on the front of its humerus, slightly larger keeled dorsal scales, and a hind leg that reaches or extends beyond the eye when stretched forward. A small spine behind the brow-ridge of the eye is also a common feature.

Behavior and Diet

Blanford's rock agamas are primarily diurnal, spending much of their time resting or basking in the sun. When temperatures become excessively high, they seek refuge in water holes to regulate their body temperature. Males are known to engage in display behaviors, including head nodding. Their diet consists exclusively of insects.

Reproduction and Distribution

The species is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. Blanford's rock agama is distributed across various hilly regions of Peninsular India, including areas in Chota Nagpur, Madhya Pradesh, along the Godavari Districts, and the Eastern Ghats. A significant southernmost record exists from Travancore.