Agama - Hardun

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Alternative Name

Scientific Name: Laudakia stellio cypriaca

Basic Info

The Hardun Agama is an average sized Agama. They can reach 30 centimeters (one foot) in length at maturity. They are usually a brownish color, though males may also have blue scales on the head and body. Their bellies may be white or yellow in color. They have powerful legs, which are quite suited for climbing. Their legs are also quite distinctive due to the presence of beautiful scaling. Each of their fingers possesses long, sharp claws. Their tails are often described as spiny. The Hardun Agama may best be best separated from some other agamas by its triangularly shaped head and distinctive neck.

Health

Breeding Female Hardun Agamas lay a clutch of eggs in June. Clutch sizes will usually range from six to eight eggs. These eggs will incubate for several months and hatch sometime between August and September.

Habitat

Only found in Cypru

Behavior

The Hardun Agama is often referred to simply as the "Hardun". The Hardun Agama is one of several subspecies of Laudakia stellio. There is some debate as to the exact number of subspecies, however, most of the research indicates that there are five accepted subspecies. All of the subspecies seem to prefer sandy habitats. In the wild they are commonly seen in trees, on rocks and walls, and hiding in crevices. They are generally timid, and will run for cover when startled. Males, however, can be territorial; and when they are in a defensive posture, they will chase opponents while shaking their heads. The Hardun Agama is diurnal and is generally described as arboreal, though it will often make its home on rocks. In its native environment this lizard is relatively common and does not seem to be endangered. They are also fairly popular in the pet trade. The Hardun Agama is reported to become accostomed to handling fairly easily, and they are generally not as aggressive as some other types of agama.

Origin

Cyprus

History

The Hardun has a fairly small range when compared with most of the other subspecies. The Hardun is only found in Cyprus. Since its identification, there seems to have been some debate over the correct naming of its genus. They were originally classified as Agama stellio, though today they are more commonly seen as Laudakia stellio.

Common Foods

The Hardun Agama is an insectivore that commonly feeds on insects such as beetles, crickets, and spiders in the wild. In captivity they should also be given a diet of insects. They are reported to prefer large insects and flying ants. They have also been