Today’s animal is the Caiman Lizard, a cousin of the popular Tegu.

The Caiman Lizard is a genus of lizards in the Teiidae family. They are found in Central and South America.

The species within this genus include the common Caiman Lizard, “Lacerta agilis,” from Cuba and Hispaniola; “Lacerta punctata” from Puerto Rico; “Lacerta johnstonii” from Texas and Arizona; “Lacerta bilineata” from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama.

Interesting Facts about the Caiman Lizard:

• The Caiman Lizards shed their skin as they grow older
• Caiman Lizards are semi-aquatic; they can live on land and in water.
• These Lizards can become fond of their owners and are therefore growing in popularity as pets.
• They have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years in captivity.
• Caiman Lizards can run at about 28 km or 17 mph.
• There are no specific names for female and male species. The only difference between them is their color.
• The Northern Caiman Lizards are brightly colored.
• Caiman Lizards live in swampy areas or flooded footlands.
• Caiman Lizards are not dangerous, but they can become aggressive if you disturb them.
• Caiman Lizards have retractable tongues and are used for communication, especially when a predator or prey is near. Also, these tongues are essential in locating food.