False gila monster (SciiFii)

The false gila monster (Psudaudeantomonstrum communis), also known as the gila agama and the American agama, is a species of lizard that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the grasslands, shrublands, scrublands, and deserts throughout southern, southwestern, and western North America to help boost biodiversity. Because of the false gila monster living in North America, it is the only living lizard of the subfamily, Agaminae, found in the New World. The false gila monster is a rather large member of its subfamy, growing to be around 26 to 36 centimeters (10 to 14 inches) long, rivaling the gila monster (Heloderma suspectum) in length, but weighs slightly less due to its less robust build. Like many agamids, the false gila monster can change its color to express its mood. False gila monsters are primarily insectivores, but they have been known to eat small mammals, reptiles and vegetation. They catch their prey using their tongue, the tip of which is covered by mucous glands that enable the lizard to hold to smaller prey. It basks on stone walls, rocks, and trees. It is usually found in rocky habitats, and is quite shy, being very ready to dive into cracks to hide from potential predators. However, it can also use its bright orange and black coloration, mimicking the gila monster's appearance (hence its name) to scare off any potential predators. Females are sexually matured at 14–18 months, while males take 15-19 months. The false gila monster tends to reproduce during the Spring, but can also reproduce in areas that receive constant rainfall. After fertilization and when she is ready, the female will dig a hole 5 centimetres deep with her snout and claws in sandy, wet/damp soil that is covered with grasses or other plants and which receives sunlight during most of the day. Once finished, the female will lay a clutch of seven to nine ellipsoidal eggs that hatch within a period of 8–10 weeks. After hatching, the offspring will measure 3.7–3.8 cm snout–vent, plus their 7.5-cm tail. The conservation status of the false gila monster is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the gila monster's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii