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