|
|
 |
|
| |
|
|
The Matte or Tegu Tupinambis teguixin, is a large terrestrial lizard. It is widespread in both Trinidad and Tobago in a range of habitats from swamp forest to lower montane forest, secondary growth, savannahs and beaches. Mattes feed on anything, including fruit, insects, centipedes, spiders, crabs, frogs, eggs, snakes and rats! They lay their eggs in termite nests 2-12 feet above the ground. When the eggs are ready to hatch they have to await a heavy shower of rain to soften the nest sufficiently for the hatchlings to emerge.
|
| |
|
|
 |
|
The Luminous Lizard Proctoporus shrevei is a species endemic to Trinidad which inhabits the cool moist forests and rivers of the northern range. When first collected in a cave in the Aripo Valley it was thought to glow in the dark, although this has not been demonstrated to be the case. This has not been demonstrated. However in the dark areas where they are found perhaps the white spots on the sides of the lizard reflect light and may appear to glow.
|
| |
|
|
no image available |
|
One of our most attractive lizards is the Ocellated gecko Gonatodes ocellatus. This lizard is thought to be restricted to the forests of Tobago and Little Tobago. It can be found among rocky outcrops and ravines where it forages for small insects. The Ocellated Gecko is more terrestrial than many of the more familiar geckos. Its curved "scorpion tail" is an adaptation to its terrestrial habits.
|
| |
|
|
 |
|
The leatherback Turtle Dermochelys coriacea, largest of all marine turtles, nests on beaches in both Trinidad and Tobago. The turtles nesting period is roughly March to August with greatest numbers seen along the north and east coasts of Trinidad. In the past many turtles were killed as they came ashore at night to lay their eggs. However in recent times the inhabitants of villages in the vicinity of the nesting beaches have come to appreciate the tourism potential of the nesting turtles and mount regular patrols to assist in the protection of this globally threatened species. The female leatherback can weigh up to 900 kg, and will lay three to four batches of eggs per season, each nest containing 65-130 eggs..
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
