North American mole lizard (SciiFii)

The North American mole lizard (Bipes americanum) is a species of amphisbaenian in the family Bipedidae that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the rainforests, wetlands, forests, open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, scrublands, and deserts across North America to help boost biodiversity. The North American mole lizard is brownish-yellow animal and is a rather large member of its family, growing to be about 27–36 cm (10.6–14.1 in) in snout-to-vent length (SVL) and 9–10.5 mm (0.35–0.41 in) in width. It lives for six to nine years. Its skin is closely segmented to give a corrugated appearance, and like earthworms, its underground movement is by peristalsis of the segments. Its blunt head allows it to burrow into sandy soils efficiently. The forelegs are strong and paddle-like, while the hind legs are nonexistent, leaving behind only vestigial bones visible in X-rays. The tail is autotomous without any regeneration. Due to not having the development of its ears, like the closely-related Mexican mole lizard (Bipes biporus), the North American mole lizard has its skin transmit vibrations to the cochlea. The North American mole lizard is an opportunist carnivore and eats ants, termites, ground-dwelling insects, larvae, earthworms, and small vertebrates including smaller lizards. It usually pulls its prey underground to start its meal. The species is a generalist predator that feeds on easily accessible prey found in soil, debris, dirt, mud, and sand,. The North American mole lizard usually bites and chews the prey items rather than swallowing them whole. Like other amphisbaenians, the North American mole lizard is a burrowing species that usually surfaces at night or after heavy rain. It uses its autotomous tail as an escape tactic for predators. Losing a part of the tail while burrowing can plug up the hole behind it, giving it time to escape. The North American mole lizard is oviparous, and the females lay three to nine eggs in midsummer. The species mainly breeds underground. The eggs hatch after two months. The conservation status of the North American mole lizard is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the North American mole lizard's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii