Earless Lizard

This critter is really hard to spot.  A perfect example of camouflage to the max!  The lizard has no ear opening, hence its name, but it can hear you.  Scientists think that this is to protect them from getting sand in to their bodies as they burrow into the sand.  With good eyes and patience, you can spot them in semi-arid areas and grasslands around the hill country.  In addition to their camouflage and their speed, they have another rather unique defence mechanism.  They are willing to sacrifice their tail if a predator grabs it.  It breaks off, the lizard escapes and eventually grows a new one!

The earless lizard is hard to spot, whether you're his next meal or his is yours. (Courtesy of Jim Baines)
The earless lizard is hard to spot, whether you’re his next meal or his is yours. (Courtesy of Jim Baines)
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