Legless Lizard: Four New Species Discovered At LAX

Legless lizards were found living in some unlikely places. California biologists discovered some of the reptiles hiding out at Los Angeles International Airport.

The lizards were found in a dune at the end of an LAX runway. Others were living in an empty city lot, a field filled with oil derricks, and the Mojave Desert.

Upon closer inspection, scientists realized they found four previously unknown species.

Biologists say the lizards are closely related to the blunt-nosed leopard lizard, which are endangered. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is working with the scientists to determine if the new species’ are endangered as well.

As reported by Discovery, legless lizards are listed with the state as being a “special concern.” As the actual population is unknown, it is hard to determine if they are endangered.

Biologist Theodore Papenfuss was on the team that discovered the lizards. Papenfuss says the present concern is protecting the lizards’ habitat.

Legless lizards are found on all five continents. There are over 200 identified species worldwide.

The reptiles usually live in loose soil, spending most of their time below ground. They survive on a diet of small insects and larvae.

Although they are often mistaken for snakes, there are some distinct differences. As reported by Live Science, most species of the lizard have eyelids and the ability to blink. They also have visible external ear openings, which snakes lack.

Their habits also differ, as most snakes do not burrow underground or ear insects.

The new species have been identified as the silver-bellied Anniella alexanderae, the yellow-bellied Anniella campi, the purple-bellied Anniella grinnelli, and the Anniella stebbinsi.

The legless lizards were captured using pieces of cardboard. The cardboard was placed where the lizards were thought to live, providing hiding spots. After checking numerous times, the biologists found and identified the four new species.

[Image via Flickr]