Oh, To Be a Snake. I Mean Alligator. Lizard?

The Madrean alligator lizard (Elgaria kingii) is one of the toughest little lizards you’ll ever meet. Really, alligator lizards, in general, can hold their own in a fight.

They get their name from their plate-like armored scales. And when you look at that face, they look like mini alligators, too. Despite their small size, they do pack a ferocious bite. They use their sharp teeth to fight off would-be predators like snakes and birds.

If you ever have the chance to see one in the wild, you’ll probably hear it first. They like to forage in fallen leaves, leaf litter. They use those tiny legs to push themselves along the forest floor. You may mistake them for a snake if you don’t pay close attention. Madrean alligator lizards prefer to slither along in an undulating fashion similar to snakes.

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