Anniellidae Site

They are insectivores, primarily eating insects, larvae, and spiders.

Traditionally, this family was thought to contain only one or two species. However, a major taxonomic revision in 2013 identified several new species based on genetic and morphological data. Currently, the family includes one genus, , with six recognized species: anniellidae

They can drop their tails to distract predators. They are insectivores, primarily eating insects, larvae, and

Anniellids are roughly the size of a pencil (about 20cm) with smooth, shiny scales that vary from silvery-beige to dark brown or black. They possess several features that distinguish them from snakes: Unlike snakes, they can blink. Currently, the family includes one genus, , with

( A. campi ): Restricted to a few sites in the eastern Sierra Nevada. Key Physical Characteristics

Many species in this family face threats from due to urban development, agriculture, and oil/gas exploration. Species like the Temblor Legless Lizard ( A. alexanderae ) have been petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act due to their extremely limited and fragmented ranges. Silvery Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra)

They lack external ear openings but retain vestigial traces of a pectoral girdle. Ecology and Behavior