Cuban curly-tailed lizard Leiocephalus carinatus labrossytus
The Cuban curly-tailed lizard (Leiocephalus carinatus ) prefers sunny areas with loose rubble and rock. In the Cayman Islands a large captured specimen was observed to consistently burrow completely under the sand in a holding tank, even though a rock retreat was provided.
It utilizes tail curling as an antipredator measure when being chased. This behavior is predominantly seen when the predator is distant, as it is an attempt to intimidate would-be pursuers.
When the predator is close however, the lizard instead seeks refuge in a burrow or cavity.
The lizard “plays dead” when handled and will remain completely motionless for a short while after being put down.
