Pygopus steelescotti
The northern hooded scaly-foot (Pygopus steelescotti) is a species of legless lizard native to northern Australia. It is characterized by its long tail and can reach a snout-to-vent length of up to 18.5 cm. This species prefers forest habitats.
Key Facts
- ›Native to northern Australia, including parts of Western Australia, Northern Territory, and Queensland.
- ›Belongs to the family Pygopodidae, commonly known as legless lizards.
- ›Can have a tail that is 100% to 152% of its snout-to-vent length.
- ›Prefers forest environments as its natural habitat.
- ›Is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs.

Northern Hooded Scaly-Foot
Northeastern Western Australia, Northern Northern Territory, Northwestern Queensland, Australia
- Large For Its Genus.
- May Attain A Snout-To-Vent Length of 18.5 cm .
- the Tail Is Very Long, 100% To 152% of Svl.
About Pygopus steelescotti
Pygopus steelescotti: Northern Hooded Scaly-Foot
What is known
Pygopus steelescotti, commonly known as the northern hooded scaly-foot, is a species of legless lizard native to northern Australia. This species belongs to the family Pygopodidae, which comprises various legless lizards.
Geographic Range and Habitat
This lizard is found in specific regions of northern Australia, including northeastern Western Australia, the northern Northern Territory, and northwestern Queensland. Its preferred natural habitat is forest environments, where it likely finds shelter and suitable conditions for survival and reproduction.
Physical Characteristics
The northern hooded scaly-foot is considered large within its genus. Adults may reach a snout-to-vent length of up to 18.5 centimeters (7.3 inches). A distinguishing feature is its exceptionally long tail, which can measure between 100% and 152% of its snout-to-vent length.
Reproduction
Pygopus steelescotti is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. This reproductive strategy is shared with many other reptile species.
Taxonomy and Etymology
The specific name, steelescotti, was chosen in honor of Dr. Colin Steele-Scott, recognizing his support for the South Australian Museum. The species was formally described as new to science in scientific literature, with detailed taxonomic revisions of related species contributing to its classification.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name for the northern hooded scaly-foot?
The scientific name for this species is Pygopus steelescotti. It is a legless lizard belonging to the family Pygopodidae.
Where is the northern hooded scaly-foot found?
Pygopus steelescotti is naturally found in northeastern Western Australia, the northern Northern Territory, and northwestern Queensland, all within Australia.
What kind of habitat does Pygopus steelescotti prefer?
The preferred natural habitat for Pygopus steelescotti is forest. This provides them with the necessary environment for shelter and foraging.
How large can the northern hooded scaly-foot get?
Pygopus steelescotti is considered large for its genus, potentially reaching a snout-to-vent length (SVL) of up to 18.5 cm (7.3 inches). Its tail is notably long, often between 100% and 152% of its SVL.
How does the northern hooded scaly-foot reproduce?
This species is oviparous, which means it reproduces by laying eggs. This is a common reproductive method among many reptile species.
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