Mexican Mole Lizard, 2-Legged Oddball Wormlike Lizard

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“

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Jeanne Melanson

Owner at Animal Bliss

Born in Nova Scotia, I moved to the United States 20+ years ago.I am a dedicated lover of animals and fight for their rights and protection.I love people too, of course, and enjoy meeting folks from all walks of life.I enjoy philosophical discussion, laughing, and really odd ball stuff.I hope you enjoy my site.Leave me a comment to let me know you were here!Peace out.

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