EGYPTIAN SPINY-TAILED LIZARD Uromastyx aeqyptius Reptile Order Squamata Description 25 in. long including tail; head distinctly set off, with lateral swellings on the side of the head. Tail short, club-like, with large, strong, keeled and pointed scales arranged around the tail. Light beige to almost black. Range Northeastern Africa. Status Currently listed and protected under C.I.T.E.S. Appendix II. Photo by Greg Neise

Ecology Habitat Scrub areas with soils that allow burrowing.   Niche primarily herbivorous, but when younger will feed on large insects; prefers clover and dandelions in captivity. Preyed upon by larger mammals and birds of prey. Life History The males perform an elaborate courtship, and males are quite often aggressive toward competitors during mating. The female lays up to 20 eggs in a burrow. Incubation 8-10 weeks. Juveniles 2-4 in. when hatched. Longevity record is 15 years. Special Adaptations Short, club-like tail with large, pointed sharp scales that is whipped at an attacker. Most of the water in the urine is reabsorbed, because water is scarce Salt glands along the nasal passages remove excess salt and help retain water balance in the lizards body. Moisture can be obtained from burning fat reserves in the tail.