The Mexican Mole Lizard is a unique looking lizard that has adapted to become an expert at life as a burrowing species.
This species of lizard is native to the Baja California Peninsula in North-Western Mexico and only usually only emerges from its burrow after heavy rainfall.
This species is sometimes referred to as the Five-Toed Worm Lizard and is one of the few species of Worm Lizards with legs.
Mexican Mole Lizard Taxonomy
In the Animal Kingdom, Taxonomy is used as the science and practice of classifying different species and sub-species based on their biological and genetic makeup.
Family
The family that the Mexican Mole Lizard belongs to is called Bipedidae. This is a family of Worm Lizards with only one genus.
The lizards in this family are sometimes referred to as the Two-Legged Worm Lizards as they lack external hind legs.
Genus
The genus that the Mexican Mole Lizard belongs to is called Bipes and this is the only genus in the Bipedidae family.
There are currently 3 recognised species in this genus with the other two being the Four-Toed Worm Lizard and the Three-Toed Worm Lizard.
The lizards in this genus are often referred to as Mole Lizards because they use their front limbs to scrape away loose soil while burrowing in a similar manner to moles.
Species
The scientific name for the Mexican Mole Lizard is Bipes biporus and there are currently no recognised sub-species.
The species was first described in 1894 by an American Zoologist named Edward Drinker Cope.
Mexican Mole Lizard Description
The Mexican Mole Lizard has a long, cylindrical body with a unique appearance resembling an elongated worm.
It can grow to an average length of around 9 to 11 inches or 23 to 28cm. The body is covered in smooth, shiny scales that range in color from pinkish-grey to light brown or cream.
One of the distinctive traits of the Mexican Mole Lizard is its lack of functional limbs. It possesses only vestigial forelimbs that are hidden beneath its skin, resembling small flaps.
However, it does have well-developed hind limbs, which it uses for burrowing.
The head of the Mexican Mole Lizard is small and narrow, with a pointed snout. It has a mouth lined with tiny teeth used for feeding on small invertebrates like insects and worms.
Natural Habitat and Distribution
The Mexican Mole Lizard is only found on the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico.
Its range extends along the western coast of Mexico from southern Baja California Sur, including the central part of the peninsula, to the northern part of Baja California.
The Mexican Mole Lizard is predominantly found in arid regions with loose, sandy soil, such as deserts, scrublands, and coastal areas.
It prefers to inhabit underground burrows, where it can seek shelter from extreme temperatures and potential predators.
Mexican Mole Lizard Behaviour
The Mexican Mole Lizard is primarily a solitary and nocturnal creature, emerging from its burrow during the night to forage for food.
It feeds on a diet consisting mainly of small invertebrates, including insects, spiders, and earthworms.
They are an excellent burrower and have adapted perfectly to life underground. Its body is designed for an efficient underground lifestyle.
The strong, shovel-like hind limbs enable it to dig through soil, while the smooth scales and elongated body shape facilitate easy movement through narrow tunnels.