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San Diego Field Station
Xantusia vigilis - Desert Night Lizard
Photo by Chris Brown

Scientific name: Xantusia vigilis

Common name: Desert Night Lizard

Size: 1.0-1.77 in (2.6-4.5 cm)

Distinguishing characters: A slim species; grey, olive, or dark brown dorsum with fine black speckles; beige stripe edged in black from eye to shoulder; smooth, granular scales on dorsum, large and squarish on venter; lacks eyelids; pupils vertical. Juveniles: Similar to adults; darker dorsal coloration.

Dimorphism: Male has enlarged femoral pores.

Similar Species: Xantusia henshawi: Has flattened head and body; prominent, large dorsal blotches; larger adult size.

Additional notes: May occur sparingly in study area. Often associated with dead branches of Yucca.

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Last update: 05 March 2003