Predation attempt on the lizard Kentropyx calcarata (Spix, 1825) by the snake Oxybelis aeneus sensu lato in a fragment of Atlantic Forest, Northeastern, Brazil

Abstract

Information about predatory encounters is important for understanding predator-prey interactions and, consequently, for understanding the natural history of the species involved. In this study we report the first event of attempted predation by Oxybelis aeneus sensu lato on Kentropyx calcarata describing its behavior and comparing it with other reports of snake predation and lizard defensive behavior. We recorded the predation event in an area shaded by cashew trees in the Atlantic Forest of the Reserva Biológica Guaribas, Mamanguape, state of Paraíba, Northeastern Brazil.