WATCH: Herpetologist sheds light on the importance of lizards

World Lizard Day is celebrated on August 14 to spread appreciation and awareness of the fascinating reptiles.

Senior herpetologist at uShaka Marine World, Carl Schloms, holding Steve a Blue-Tongued Skink Lizard. Photo: Nia Louw

WORLD Lizard Day is commemorated every year on August 14, and the celebratory day in honour of the reptile encourages us to show appreciation to lizards and learn more about them.

A lizard is considered a reptile, which is characterised by its scaly skin. Other features all reptiles have include long bodies and tails, four legs, and moveable eyelids. Most lizards lay eggs. However, there are some lizards that give birth to live babies.

Also read: Elephant plight highlighted on World Elephant Day

uShaka’s Dangerous Creatures is home to Murdoc, a black-throated rock monitor who holds a special place in the hearts of the staff at Dangerous Creatures. Photo: Nia Louw

Lizards play a vital role in ecosystems across the world, they control insect populations and disperse seeds and they have captured the hearts of lizard enthusiasts the world over.

Caxton Local Media chatted to the lead herpetologist at the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) at uShaka Marine World, Carl Schloms, about why he enjoys working with lizards and why their role in the environment is so important.

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