Species: Calotes versicolor
English Name: Changeable Lizard, Oriental Garden Lizard, Eastern Garden Lizard
Chinese Name: 变色树蜥, 马鬃蛇, 鸡冠蛇
Family: Agamidae
Description:
Medium-sized lizard (37 cm in total length) with a spiny crest along the nape and back, a distinctive spine above the tympanum and lack of a shoulder fold. The coloration varies from dull brown to grey or olive, but they can change their colors (not as rapidly as chameleons). During the breeding season, or after a successful battle with rivals, male’s head and shoulders turns bright orange with two black patches on the neck. Commonly found in low shrubs and bushes but also in trees.
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References:
– Zhao, E., Leung, V., Leung, C. V. (1999). Notes on amphibians and reptiles of Macau. Sichuan Journal of Zoology 18 (4) , 147-150.