Species Description: Calotes calotes

Common Name: Calotes calotes
Scientific Name: Calotes calotes

Habitat

The Calotes calotes, commonly known as the Common Garden Lizard, is primarily found in the tropical and subtropical regions of South Asia. This species flourishes in environments that include open forests, grasslands, and gardens. It is widely distributed across India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia. Preferring warm, dry habitats, Calotes calotes is often seen basking in the sun and can adapt to both rural and urban landscapes.

Physical Characteristics

This lizard exhibits a notable size, typically ranging from 30 to 50 centimeters in length. The vivid coloration often includes shades of brown, green, or gray, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its environment. Its body is elongated with a distinctive head that features a pronounced throat and dewlap, which is used for communication and mating displays. The skin texture is rough, aiding in camouflage against predators.

Behavior

Calotes calotes is diurnal, primarily active during the day. It exhibits a range of behaviors such as basking in sunlight, climbing trees, and exhibiting territorial displays, especially during the breeding season. This species is known for its quick defensive response, often using its ability to change color for camouflage to evade predators. Additionally, males engage in aggressive displays, including head bobbing and throat inflation, to establish dominance.

Diet

The Common Garden Lizard is an insectivore, feeding predominantly on a diet of small insects, including ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. Occasionally, it may consume small fruits and flowers, expanding its diet to include plant matter. The lizard’s feeding habits are essential for controlling insect populations, highlighting its role as a predator in its ecosystem.

Reproduction

Calotes calotes breeds during the monsoon season, typically laying eggs in moist soil or under rocks. Females can lay clutches ranging from 5 to 15 eggs, which incubate for about 30 days before hatching. The young lizards are independent at birth, showcasing rapid growth and development, which enhances their survival in the wild.

Conservation Status

Currently, Calotes calotes is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, although habitat loss and environmental changes pose potential threats. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the continued stability of its populations in the face of urbanization and agricultural expansion.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that Calotes calotes can change its color? This ability not only aids in camouflage but also serves as a communication method with other lizards. Their territorial nature often leads to fascinating displays of dominance, contributing to their captivating presence in gardens and forests alike.

Role in Ecosystem

As a vital component of its ecosystem, Calotes calotes plays a significant role in pest control by regulating insect populations. Additionally, its presence contributes to the food web, serving as prey for a variety of birds and larger reptiles. The interactions between this lizard and its environment help maintain ecological balance, underlining its importance within its habitat.