Chalcides ocellatus (Forskal, 1775)

Adult Size and Weight

Adult Chalcides ocellatus typically reach 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 in) in length and weigh 22 to 39 g.

Body and Limb Morphology

They have a small head, cylindrical body, and five toes on each foot.

Agility and General Habitat

They are very agile and are often found in arid areas.

Taxonomic Relationship

This species is closely related to Chalcides colosii, which was formerly classified as a subspecies of C. ocellatus.

Markings and Coloration

C. ocellatus is known for having ocelli and displaying a wide variety of coloration patterns.

Reproduction

Females of this species give birth to 2 to 6 live young via viviparity.

Habitat Range

Chalcides ocellatus is a generalist species that can occupy a wide range of environments, including farmland and gravel deserts along the Mediterranean coast.

Predator Escape Tactic

Its primary escape tactic from predators is to run behind vegetation, most likely because it is not built for fast running.

Locomotion and Adaptations

While this species has very smooth scales and can perform "sand-swimming" behavior in loose sand or soil, its limbs are not specifically adapted for fossorial (burrowing) movement.