Gallotia stehlini
The Gran Canaria giant lizard (Gallotia stehlini) is a large species of lizard endemic to Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, Spain. Growing up to 80 cm in length, it is characterized by its varied gray, brown, and reddish coloration, with males exhibiting more robust heads and jowls. This omnivorous species primarily inhabits shrubland and rocky areas.
Key Facts
- ›Can reach a total length of up to 80 cm (31 inches), making it one of the largest in its family.
- ›Found naturally on Gran Canaria and introduced to Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands.
- ›Males are distinguished by larger jowls, robust heads, and greater body mass compared to females.
- ›An omnivore, with juveniles consuming invertebrates, vegetation, and fruits, while adults focus more on plant matter.
- ›Inhabits temperate shrubland, Mediterranean vegetation, rocky areas, rocky shores, and pastures.
- ›Listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN due to threats such as introduced predators.
Gran Canaria Giant Lizard
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
- Grows To A Total Length of Up To 80 cm .
- Among the Largest Reptiles In the Lacertidae Family.
- Coloration Includes A Variety of Grays, Browns, and Reddish Hues.
- Males Exhibit Sizable Jowls, Robust Heads, and Greater Overall Body Mass Compared To Females.
Invertebrates, Vegetation, Soft Fruits
Oviparous
Introduction of California Kingsnake
About Gallotia stehlini
Gran Canaria Giant Lizard (Gallotia stehlini)
The Gran Canaria giant lizard, scientifically known as Gallotia stehlini, is a substantial reptile native to the Canary Islands. This species is among the largest within the Lacertidae family, capable of reaching a total length of up to 80 cm (31 inches). Its coloration varies, encompassing shades of gray, brown, and reddish hues. Males are notably distinguished from females by their more robust heads, larger jowls, and generally greater body mass, indicating sexual dimorphism.
Habitat and Distribution
Gallotia stehlini is primarily endemic to the island of Gran Canaria in Spain's Canary Islands archipelago. It has also been introduced to Fuerteventura. The species thrives in a range of natural environments, including temperate shrubland, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, rocky areas, rocky shores, and pastureland. Its habitat can extend from sea level to elevations as high as 1,850 meters (6,070 ft).
Diet and Reproduction
This lizard is a true omnivore. Young Gallotia stehlini tend to consume a diet that includes various invertebrates, vegetation, and soft fruits. As they mature, their diet shifts to consist largely of plant matter. The species reproduces oviparously, meaning it lays eggs.
Conservation
As of July 2024, the Gran Canaria giant lizard is classified as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). A significant threat to its population is the introduction of invasive species, particularly the California kingsnake, which preys upon the lizards.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name for the Gran Canaria giant lizard?
The scientific name for the Gran Canaria giant lizard is Gallotia stehlini. This binomial nomenclature is used to classify the species within the scientific community.
Where is the Gran Canaria giant lizard found?
The Gran Canaria giant lizard is endemic to Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, Spain. It has also been introduced to the island of Fuerteventura.
What does the Gran Canaria giant lizard eat?
Gallotia stehlini is an omnivore. Young lizards consume invertebrates, vegetation, and soft fruits, while mature individuals primarily feed on plant matter.
What are the physical characteristics of Gallotia stehlini?
This lizard can grow up to 80 cm in total length and exhibits a range of gray, brown, and reddish hues. Males are notably larger and have more developed jowls and heads than females.
What is the conservation status of the Gran Canaria giant lizard?
The Gran Canaria giant lizard is currently listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. This status is largely due to the impact of introduced predators, such as the California kingsnake.
What types of habitats does this lizard prefer?
Gallotia stehlini is found in natural habitats such as temperate shrubland, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, rocky areas, rocky shores, and pastureland. It can inhabit areas from sea level up to altitudes of 1,850 meters.
Related Lizards
Gran Canaria giant lizard
The Gran Canaria giant lizard, scientifically known as Gallotia stehlini, is a large lizard species endemic to Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands. These omnivorous reptiles can reach up to 80 cm in total length and exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males possessing more robust features. They inhabit a variety of Mediterranean-type environments and are currently listed as Critically Endangered.
Podarcis pityusensis
The Ibiza wall lizard (Podarcis pityusensis) is a species native to the Balearic Islands, primarily Ibiza and Formentera. This lizard is characterized by its green, grey, or brownish dorsal surface, a pale dorso-lateral stripe, and a robust body with coarse scales. It inhabits a variety of environments, including rocky shores, gardens, and urban areas, and its population is currently listed as endangered due to invasive snake species.
East Canary gecko
The East Canary gecko, also known as the Canary wall gecko (Tarentola angustimentalis), is a species of lizard native to the eastern Canary Islands. This plump, dorsally flattened gecko is characterized by adhesive toe pads, small tubercles on its skin, and variable greyish-brown coloration with darker bars. It inhabits a wide range of environments, from rocky shores and shrubland to urban areas, and is commonly observed at night on walls and ceilings.