HABITAT

Daniel Ariano Binns

The Guatemalan Beaded Lizard is endemic to the semi-arid region of the Motagua Valley is tropical thorn scrub, dry and very dry tropical forest. Average maximum and minimum temperatures in the area range from 34 to 18°C with absolute maximum & minimum temperatures varying from 45 – 4°C.

Animals are active at temperatures between 24 and 32°C, with an increase in activity between 28 and 31°C; animals are more active if the relative humidity is above 50%, increasing as it approaches 100%. Avg. precipitation ranges – 400 to 1500 mm; relative humidity 70 to 80%. The species is most active during twilight and at the onset of nightfall (17:00 to 21:00 hours), followed by afternoon (13:00 to 16:00 hours) and the morning (7:00 a 12:00 hours).

H. h. charlesbogerti is found at elevations between 300 and 900 m above sea level in arroyos and along rocky slopes with steep inclines; unlike the surrounding area, the arroyos support a specific microclimate, with increased humidity and greener vegetation. Vegetation is xerophytic including species such as Acacia farnesiana, Pereskia autumnalis, Bucida macrostachya, Jacquinia aurantiaca, and the bromeliad, Hechtia guatemalensis.

Photo: Daniel Ariano

The geographical isolation of the region has resulted in a high rate of endemism with many unique species of flora and fauna such as the Paleate Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura palearis), a subspecies of streak-backed oriole (Icterus pustulatus alticola), and the endemic whiptail (Aspidoceles managuae).

H. h. charlesbogerti dig their own burrows, or modify existing retreats used by other species such as Ctenosaura sp; many shelters are located among groupings of Hechtia guatemalensis.

Natural History