Rock agama lizard eating a fly

Peninsular rock agama lizard (Psammophilus dorsalis) eating a fly that it caught at lightning speed. Karnataka, India.

Rock agama lizards, also known as mountain dragons or rock lizards, (Psammophilus dorsalis) are a fascinating and colorful species of reptile found throughout India. These small but hardy creatures are well adapted to life in rocky terrain, using their sharp claws and keen eyesight to navigate steep slopes and rocky outcrops.

Rock agama lizards are known for their striking appearance, with bright colors that range from orange and red to blue and green. These colors are especially vivid in males during breeding season, when they display their brightly colored dewlaps to attract mates.

Despite their beauty and adaptability, rock agama lizards face a number of threats in India, including habitat loss and degradation, predation, and collection for the pet trade. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitats and raise awareness about the importance of these unique and valuable creatures.

One of the most interesting aspects of rock agama lizards is their social behavior. They are known to form groups or colonies, with males competing for the attention of females and defending their territory against other males. They are also known for their acrobatic abilities, using their long tails to balance on rocks and leap from one surface to another.

You can find out more about Rock agama lizards here.