Swinhoe's japalura
Profile
Scientific name: Japalura Swinhonis
Common name: Bamboo tiger, Do Dieh (in Taiwanese pronunciation), Japalura Mitsukurii

Features: Swinhoe's japalura is the largest of all Taiwanese japaluras with a maximum length of 31cm, though its tail accounts for two-thirds of its total length. The base color of its back is yellowish-brown, the edge of its mouth is white, and its chin is gray with white specks. Swinhoe's japalura has a prominent backbone, the sides of its body are slightly flat, and its skin is fairly rough. Males also have an extra set of bright, yellowish-green markings on the sides of their body.
Behavior: Swinhoe's japalura are diurnal reptiles that are most active on the fringes of forests, often sunning themselves on either the ground or the trunks of sparsely leafed trees. Insects and small invertebrates comprise the bulk of their diet. Their tails are not regenerative, but they do have good protective coloration. During their breeding season in the summer, females will typically lay a clutch of four to six eggs. When approached by other animals, males will respond by performing pushups and extending their dewlap-which turns black to make the white specks on their throat more visible-in an attempt to scare away potential enemies.
Habitat: Commonly seen in the wilderness, Swinhoe's japalura are endemic to Taiwan and live in regions ranging from lowlands to mountainous areas up to 1500m in altitude. They are the most numerous and widespread of all Taiwanese japaluras.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Home