Identification
The Common Scaly Foot, Pygopus lepidopodus, is the largest species of legless lizard found in the Melbourne area. It possesses keeled body scales and usually has interrupted dark stripes on the back. Snout vent length to 240 mm with the tail much longer than the head and body.
Common Scaly Foot
Photographer: Peter Robertson / Source: Wildlife Profiles Pty. Ltd.
Distribution and habitat
Within the Melbourne area, the Common Scaly Foot is restricted to isolated populations on the Mornington Peninsula, where it lives on sandstone or in loose sand. It is usually most active in the hours immediately after dawn or immediately preceding dusk.
Biology
The Common Scaly Foot is a terrestrial species and it feeds on a wide variety of invertebrates. Females normally lay two eggs per clutch.
Further Reading
Cogger, H. 2000. Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books.
Wilson, S. & Swan, G. 2003. Reptiles of Australia. Princeton University Press.