Introduction

There are seven species of lava lizard within the Galapagos archipelago (Galapagos, Española, Floreana, Marchena, Pinta, Pinzón and San Cristobal), six of which are endemic to the particular island they live on, reflected by their common names.  The largest of the lava lizards resides on Española island, whilst the smallest species can be found on Floreana.

Identification

Lava lizards can be identified by their relatively small size, long tapering tails, slim bodies and pointed heads.  They have long and pointed toes and scaly skin, somewhat different to that of the gecko - the only animal they are likely to be confused with.  It is practically impossible to identify a specific species without seeing it close up, however, due to the fact that no more than one species resides on any one island, it is easy to make an assumption of the spcies.

Adult males are varied in body colouration and markings, which are generally adapted to blend in with the surroundings in which they live.  The majority of males are dark grey in colour with black speckling, while others are reddish or have pink stripes along their sides.  When the males are fully mature, they have a black throat and develop a short crest of spiny scales.  These scales extend the length of their backs and can be raised during display.

Adult females are 2-3 times lighter in weight than males.  They are similar in appearance to the males, but without the spiny scales along their backs.  When the females are mature, they develop a red or orange throat which in the Española lava lizard, extends to the whole head.

Behaviour

Lava lizards are active during the day.  Both sexes are highly territorial, with males and females actively defending their territories against same sex intruders.  Such defensive techniques include performing push-ups with their front legs (more vigorous in males).  The breeding season takes place from December onwards, which marks the start of the warm/wet season.  Males can take up to three years to reach sexual maturity, while females are capable of breeding from the age of three months.

Photograph kindly provided by Ralph Pannell

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