At Terra Natura Benidorm we have incorporated for the first time in our biological exhibit, a specimen of the sand fish lizard (Scincopus fasciatus), also commonly known as the banded scinco. Its curious name is due to the ease with which this reptile can submerge and move around in the sand, as if it were water.

It is a little-known species of lizard, which belongs to the family of scincos. The park’s herpetologists have brought this adult female, to bring the knowledge about this reptile closer to the visiting public and to promote the scientific dissemination of this species. The new specimen is approximately 15 centimetres in size and weighs 45 grams.

Its body has orange tones with black stripes in the area of the pectoral, which is white. The ring around its eyes is deep black and its oval head is combined with a short conical tail. The female has adapted perfectly to her new surroundings and shows an affable character towards her keepers, since unlike other reptiles she does not miss the team of keepers when she is in charge of the maintenance of the terrarium, something that is frequent in this species.

This lizard spends most of its time completely submerged in the sand and has no difficulty breathing. This unique and atypical ability to move in the sand is possible because the species is in the middle of the evolutionary process, between the lizard and the snake. This specimen will be part of the experience called ‘Discovery reptiles’ that takes place in Terra Natura Benidorm.

Sand fish lizards are omnivorous and their temperament means that they are not shy and will even eat from the hand of their keepers. In captivity they can live up to 20 years old. They usually live in deserts and arid areas of North Africa. On the other hand, it is an oviparous species with clutches of two or three eggs that usually hatch in spring.