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.
About the Mexican Mole Lizard
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
Her own animal experience is vast, having raised and rescued Alpine Goats, Chickens, Turkeys, Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pigs, Turtles, Raccoons, Cats, Dogs, and even an Opossum and Bearded Dragon.
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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.
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.
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!
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.
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
For me this is just TMI. Not fond of creepy looking critters.
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