Blanford's rock lizard (Psammophilus blanfordanus)

Blanford's Rock Lizard

Blanford's rock lizard, scientifically classified as Psammophilus blanfordanus, is a species of lizard belonging to the Agamidae family. This species is endemic to the Indian subcontinent, with its natural range predominantly located in Peninsular India. It is one of two species within the Psammophilus genus and is primarily found to the east of the distribution of its close relative, Psammophilus dorsalis.

Physical Characteristics

While closely resembling P. dorsalis, P. blanfordanus can be differentiated by several features. It possesses a deeper fold on the front of its humerus and has slightly larger scales around the middle of its body, typically numbering between 80 and 100. The scales along its back are described as keeled and imbricated. A diagnostic trait is that when the hind leg is extended forward along the body, it usually reaches or surpasses the eye. Some individuals may also exhibit a small spine behind the edge of the brow-ridge and scattered enlarged scales on their sides.

Juvenile Blanford's rock lizards are typically olive-brown above, marked with brown spots or marbling, similar to adult females. However, young specimens often display a series of large, dark brown, lozenge-shaped spots with pale centers along their backs and tails. The adult male undergoes a dramatic transformation during the breeding season; its head and the anterior portion of its body become a striking scarlet or red hue, contrasting with the nearly black posterior parts. Females are generally smaller than males.

Habitat and Behavior

Blanford's rock lizards are predominantly found on rocky terrains and hills. They are often observed resting or basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature. When exposed to excessive heat, they seek refuge in water sources to cool down. Males are known to engage in display behaviors, including head nodding.

Diet and Reproduction

The diet of P. blanfordanus consists mainly of insects, marking it as an insectivore. The species is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. The typical size of an adult Blanford's rock lizard is approximately 10 cm (3.9 inches) in snout-to-vent length, with a tail that can be as long as 20 cm (7.9 inches).

Distribution and Etymology

This species is common on many hills across regions such as Chota Nagpur, extending as high as Parasnath Hill, and through Madhya Pradesh. Its range continues south along the Godavari Districts and the hills of the Eastern Ghats. The southernmost recorded specimen was collected in Talayar, Travancore, at a significant elevation. Both the common name, Blanford's rock agama, and the specific epithet, blanfordanus, honor the English naturalist William Thomas Blanford, who was a member of the Geological Survey of India.