Mexican Mole Lizard
~ Odd 2-Legged Lizard, aka Bipes Biporus ~
The Mexican Mole Lizard, or Bipes biporus, is an odd looking creature. It looks like a long earthworm with two front legs with claws that act like paddles. It burrows in porous soils, just like an earthworms. It’s not a true lizard but it’s closely related to lizards and snakes and belongs to the small suborder Amphisbaenia which is endemic to Baja California, Mexico
The Mexican Mole Lizard is also commonly known as the five-toed worm lizard. It is one of four species of amphisbaenians that have legs. It should not be confused with a salamander.
Mexican Mole Lizard – Description
Mexican Mole Lizards are pink, lizard-like reptiles, 18–24 cm (7.1–9.4 in) snout-to-vent length and 6–7 mm (0.24–0.28 in) in width. They live for one to two years. Their skin is closely segmented to give a corrugated appearance, and like earthworms, their underground movement is by peristalsis of the segments.
The forelegs are strong and paddle-like, while the hindlegs have disappeared, leaving behind only vestigial bones visible in X-rays. The feet fold back for a “swimming” motion, yet come into play for guidance and digging.
Mexican Mole Lizard – Reproduction
This species is oviparous and the females lay one to four eggs in July. The species only breeds underground. The eggs hatch after two months.
Mexican Mole Lizard – Geographic Range
The Mexican mole lizard is found only in [Xochimilco], Mexico.
Mexican Mole Lizard – Behavior
Like all other amphisbaenians, this burrowing species only surfaces at night or after heavy rain.
Mexican Mole Lizard – Diet
This carnivore eats ants, termites, ground-dwelling insects, larvae, earthworms, and small animals including lizards. It usually pulls its prey down to the ground to start its meal.
SOURCES:
Wikipedia – Mexican Mold Lizard
The Reptile Report – 2-legged Oddball, the Bipes-biporus
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I hope you have enjoyed, “Mexican Mole Lizard, 2-Legged Oddball Bipes Biporus Lizard“
You might also like to read, Jamaican Iguana Thought to be Extinct Makes a Comeback
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MY QUESTION FOR YOU TODAY: Are there any animals you know of that you would like to see featured here on my blog? Is there any creature that you would like to learn more about? Or, do you have a story you would like to submit about a pet you have? I would love to hear from you in the comment section below, or please email me directly at jeanne@jeannemelanson.com
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Jeanne Melanson
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I love reading these! I never knew that much about these before. I would like to hear about the fishing cats.
Fishing cats? I’ll see what I can do, Shannon. Thanks for your input!
This creature is actually very cute…I wouldn’t want to touch it, but it’s very cute 🙂 I would love to see some features on here about venomous insects or maybe some unknown deep sea creatures.
It is kind of cute, isn’t it? I would touch it. Venomous insects and unknown deep sea creatures coming up! Thanks! 😉
I have to admit that this little creature is a bit disturbing. Thanks for opening my eyes to new things I wouldn’t even know existed otherwise!
I understand what you mean. It’s a strange little creature, isn’t it?
Wow a very unique but a bit scary. I must admit I am afraid of lizards and snakes. Bad experiences growing up in the country as a little boy I guess. I bet this thing can eat some bugs though. Thanks for sharing.
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I’m sorry you had to experience scary things as a boy, Nathaniel. Snakes and lizards are quite fascinating creatures. But thanks for taking the time to have a look! I appreciate you.
Thanks, Esha. Kinda weird, isn’t it?
Wow Jeannie, I never new such critters existed! They are cute looking in an odd way. Thank you for telling me abut them. Your blogs are so interesting and informative that I can’t wait to read them. It just goes to show how much there is to learn about out there! Again, thank you. The Birdman
Thanks for stopping by, Jon! I always, always, appreciate it when you do! 🙂
Seriously, this look so beautiful and creepy at the same time…. Can’t touch it 🙂
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I understand the beautiful and creepy part. Such a strange little dude. lol Thanks for stopping by, Frank!
Wow…clever looking guy.
Hey, Jessie! I’m glad you stopped by! Thanks for your comment too. Come back soon!
You always share some awesome info Jeanne! I’m very scared of lizards and cannot even think of holding them in my hand 🙂
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Especially this lizard, I imagine, Priya. But generally, there’s nothing to be afraid of. Most lizards are quite harmless. 😉
For me this is just TMI. Not fond of creepy looking critters.
Haha. I can understand that, Sarah. Thanks for your comment though! 😉
Wow, what a strange creature. It sounds like it would be a beneficial thing to have in your garden to eat the bugs and aerate the earth. It’s funny that it only lives in one specific place on earth. Thanks for sharing.
Yes, they are quite rare, apparently. I’m sure they would be great for a garden. Odd little critters, aren’t they? Thanks for stopping by, Trish!
This kind of stuff Fascinates Me! I think this Slippery Little Fella is Just Adorable, I know some people would disagree! I Love learning about Animals, especially the Very Unique & Unusual Kind! They Need Love Too! Thanks for your Really Cool & Interesting Blogs! God Bless! Jana
That’s all very kind of you to say, Jana. I’m happy that you appreciate my posts so much, and that you love all these little creepy critters as well. I think this guy is adorable too, in a strange “a face only a mother could love” kind of way. 🙂 Thanks for your comment!
I’m so happy that you’re enjoying my posts, Jana. I also glad that you love learning about animals so much. I do too. I also think that this slippery guy is kind of cute too, in “a face only a mother could love” kind of say. 🙂 Thanks for your comment!