Observations on the Ecology and Behavior of Cnemidophorus guttatus and Cnemidophorus deppei (Sauria, Teiidae) in Southern Veracruz

Abstract

The ecology and behavior of sympatric populations of Cnemidophorus guttatus and Cnemidophorus deppei living on a recently burned area of coastal sand dunes near Lerdo de Tejada, Veracruz, were studied during June and July 1964. C. deppei apparently prefers the open areas of grassy vegetation between dunes; C. guttatus prefers to remain in close association to the dense thickets, but there is some spatial overlap in the distribution of these lizards. Foraging behavior consists of surface patrolling, digging and peering beneath debris, and climbing low vegetation. Foraging pressure is apparently intense. C. guttatus may have a selective advantage because of its ability to climb to heights of 6 feet in search of food, notably lepidopteran larvae. Much of the activity of these lizards consists of digging either in search of food or in burrow construction. Burrows are used for escape and as places of refuge during unfavorable surface conditions such as rain. Speed is important as an escape mechanism in both forms. A preferred body temperature near 40 C? is suggested from an inadequate sample. C. deppei may prefer a slightly higher body temperature than C. guttatus. Copulation of C. deppei is described andanapparentpremating sequence of C. guttatus is depicted. During the latter the male C. guttatus literally traces the path of the female, attempting to maintain body contact by nipping and nudging her or by resting astride her dorsum whenever possible. Copulation of C. guttatus was not observed. A large male C. guttatus may chase another male that ventures too close, but there is no evidence of territorality in either species.