Delma impar

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Family

Pygopodidae (legless lizards)

Genus

Delma

Species

impar

Common name/s

Striped Legless Lizard, Spinifex Snake Lizard

Distinguishing Features

The Striped Legless Lizard has (not surprisingly) no legs, but is a lizard and not a snake. It has a blunt snout and a yellowish brown stripe along its back to the tip of the tail. Dark and light stripes (or rows of spots) are found along its body, with these stripes being less distinct on the tail. Juveniles usually do not feature any stripes or other markings.

Similar Species

The Olive Legless Lizard (Delma inornata ) is similar in appearance, but lacks stripes or distinct patterning. Legless lizards are often mistaken for snakes and are sometimes killed as a result. However, the two species of legless lizards in the ACT do not resemble any snakes in the area. Legless lizards have a fleshy tongue and ear openings, while snakes have forked tongues and no ear holes or flaps.

Distribution

Southern NSW around ACT, central and western Vic and into SA. Locally found in four discrete areas: Gungahlin, the lower Majura Valley, the lower Jerrabomberra Valley and Yarramundi Reach.

Country of Origin

Australia

Survey Techniques

Pitfall trapping is currently used to survey the species.

Conservation (Pet/Pest) Status - National

Vulnerable (EPBC Act 1999)

Conservation (Pet/Pest) Status - Regional

Vulnerable (Nature Conservation Act 1980)

LSCCES Population

The local population has become fragmented by urban development and infrastructure. It is likely that further habitat will be lost due to urban expansion.

Associated vegetation community

Grasslands

Limiting Resources

The abundance of Delma impar is dependant on Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) larvae. The lizard also requires grassland habitat, usually of native grasses, but can also live in areas dominated by introduced grass species.

Breeding

Delma impar reaches maturity at around 3 years. The female lays a clutch of two eggs in early summer, with the eggs hatching one to two months later.

Behaviour

Tends to shelter under rocks, fallen vegetation and in tussock grasses. The lizard also shelters in burrows. It is active from late Spring to early Autumn and is diurnal. As with other lizards, it likes to bask in the sun to until very warm.

Functional Group

Insectivore

Food Species

The lizard eats a variety of insects including caterpillars, wolf spiders, crickets, grasshoppers and cockroaches.

Predators

Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and cats (Felis domesticus).

Interesting Fact

This legless lizard species squeaks loudly when in distress.

Legless lizards are closely related to geckos.