Lava Lizard

Galapagos Wildlife: Lava Lizard © Luiz Ortiz Catedral

Lava Lizard © Luiz Ortiz Catedral

Species Data

Common Name Lava Lizard
Scientific Name Microlophus
Spanish Name Lagartija de lava
Conservation Status

Galapagos Graphics: IUCN Red List Least Concern © Dan Wright

Least Concern

Endemic/Native/Introduced

Endemic 

Size 15 - 30 cm length
Average Lifespan 10 years
Predators Hawks, heron, snakes, scorpions and other lava lizards
Food Omnivores (mostly insects; ants, spiders, beetles but will also eat seeds and leaves)
Animal Class Reptile

Species Overview

There are seven species of lava lizard in the Archipelago, all of which are endemic, and they occur on all of the major islands except Genovesa. The colour, size and behaviour of lava lizards vary between islands. Generally they inhabit rocky areas of Galapagos and can be seen basking in the early sun to warm themselves before hunting. Lava lizards are highly territorial, with a male’s territory being up to 400 m2. When threatened, the lava lizard does a set of ‘push-ups’ with their front arms, as a way of showing his strength to the predator. 

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Species Data
Common Name Lava Lizard
Scientific Name Microlophus
Spanish Name Lagartija de lava
Conservation Status

Galapagos Graphics: IUCN Red List Least Concern © Dan Wright

Least Concern

Endemic / Native / Introduced

Endemic 

Size 15 - 30 cm length
Average Lifespan 10 years
Predators Hawks, heron, snakes, scorpions and other lava lizards
Food Omnivores (mostly insects; ants, spiders, beetles but will also eat seeds and leaves)
Animal Class Reptile