![armadillo lizard petco armadillo lizard petco](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/c0/48/38/c04838e32b0db3ea1652cd1c5c8f6dd7.jpg)
Can't figure out where to post down in the other discussion forums? The armadillo girdled lizard (Ouroborus cataphractus), also commonly known as the armadillo lizard, the Golden-armadillo lizard, or the armadillo spiny-tailed lizard, is a species of lizard in the family Cordylidae. Reptile & Amphibian - General Discussion Forums. The species Ouroborus cataphractus was classified by the IUCN as Vulnerable until 1996, but has since been downgraded to Least Concern. In this shape, it is protected from predators by the thick, squarish scales along its back and the spines on its tail. Once it is in this curled-up position, the other parts of its body automatically act as a layer of protection to its soft exposed belly. Reinforcement of this law has not been easy to carry out and many people can still find the armadillo girdled lizard on display at large pet conventions and even in some pet stores. Males are territorial, protecting a territory and mating with the females living there. Furthermore, these insect-eaters require little to survive, are relatively easy to catch, and look like little dragons, which is likely why many of them are even kept as pets - and consequently in danger of illegal trafficking that now has this one-of-a-kind creature facing a major threat. Armadillo lizards hide in large family groups among the rock crevices in South Africa’s desert to shield themselves from the area’s harsh elements and predators. , The armadillo girdled lizard possesses an uncommon antipredator adaptation, in which it takes its tail in its mouth and rolls into a ball when frightened. With its thorny exterior and unique defenses, the armadillo lizard might be both one of nature’s cutest and one of its most eccentric reptiles. Their slow-moving disposition and propensity to stay in large groups make them an easy target for collectors. It lives in social groups of up to 30 to 60 individuals of all ages, but usually fewer. There is a high level of movement between groups by males, females, and juveniles alike. The criminals were sentenced to 1 million South African Rand (the equivalent of $70,000) or 13 years of jail time. This is precisely what must be stopped if this unique creature is to have a healthy future on planet Earth. If it feels threatened, an armadillo lizard will curl itself into a ball until its mouth is biting the end of its tail. Wikimedia CommonsThough they are slow-moving, these lizards compensate with a body of armor-like spikes. According to Capetown publication IOL, a ring of wildlife traffickers was busted for the illegal possession and transport of 48 armadillo lizards. Females give birth once a year at most some take a year off between births. From food and tanks, to plants and lights, Petco has everything you need to care for a bearded dragon. Shop the leopard gecko supplies your pet needs at Petco. They are around 6" long, reddish brown color, and spiny. In the wild, its most common prey items are termites, especially Microhodotermes viator and Hodotermes mossambicus. The armadillo girdled lizard, or Ouroborus cataphractus, can be found in between the rocky mounts of the Succulent Karoo region of South Africa. The males are naturally territorial with each other. The traffickers were brought down by a network of local law enforcement working with animal conversation and advocacy group CapeNature Conservation Service, including the Biodiversity Crime Unit and multiple municipal police offices of the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit.