Alligator lizards may look a little fierce with their long bodies, bumpy scales, and toothy grin, but they’re far from dangerous to people. Found throughout the western U.S., these reptiles are most often seen basking in sunny spots or darting into cover when startled.
Their name comes from their gator-like appearance and attitude—when threatened, they’ll open their jaws wide in defense. But in reality, they’re shy creatures that prefer a diet of insects, spiders, and the occasional small critter. Like many lizards, they can even drop their tails to escape predators, a clever survival trick.
Next time you spot one, take a closer look (from a respectful distance). The alligator lizard is a reminder that even the smallest neighbors play a big role in keeping ecosystems balanced.
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