The Mexican mole lizard, aka Bipes, spends most of its time burrowing in soft soil in Western Mexico and Baja California. These creatures are neither a lizard or a snake. They are in a category all their own. Each of the known species has a different number of digits: 1 with 3, another with 4, and another with 5. Not having the need for very developed eyes, they rely on chemosensory (skin that is responsive to chemical stimuli) to find their way around more so than vision alone. They are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Bipes biporus
Weight: Up to 3 ounces
Length: Up to 9.4 inches
Lifespan: Up to 2 years
Now on to the Facts!
1.) They have sharp but tiny teeth. So, they aren’t going to hurt you or even break skin.
2.) Their predators are many but not documented. Birds, snakes, and even other lizards all may prey on these cute little critters.
3.) Mole lizards eat a variety of food including: termites, ants, larvae, ground-dwelling insects (like beetles), earthworms, cockroaches, and even other lizards.
4.) Mexican mole lizards are not venomous or poisonous.
5.) When feeding they will use their forelimbs to clamp onto their prey and force it into their mouth.
But wait, there’s more on the Mexican mole lizard!
6.) The Mexican mole lizard is nocturnal (active at night).
7.) Mole lizards only have 2 front legs and no hind legs.
Did you know…?
There is an old myth that says these creatures will find their way up toilet drains and attack you at your most venerable. They then bite you on the nether regions. This is false. They don’t live in or swim in water at all.
8.) It is 1 of 4 species of amphisbaenians (worm lizards) that have legs.
9.) Like many other lizards these critters can self-amputate their tails on command to escape predators. This is called autotomy.
10.) These lizards breed in July and bury their 1 – 4 eggs in the soil for protection.
Now a Short Mexican Mole Lizard Video!
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