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Often mistaken for a snake, the sheltopusik is actually a large, legless lizard.  Broadly distributed but rarely seen, it’s most active at night when it hunts for insects and rodents.

sheltopusik

Did You Know?

The scientific name means “fake-legged no-leg”.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Pseudopus apodus

Range:
Southern Europe and Central Asia

Habitat:
Arid grasslands and lightly vegetated valleys

Lifespan:
20-30 years

Zoo Location:
Reptile House

Diet:
Insects and rodents