14 Nebraskaland • June 2020
The slender glass lizard (Ophisaurus attenuatus) is one of
the rarest lizards in Nebraska. This species was thought to
be extirpated in the state. Now, biologists have records of
sightings, or a specimen, from only two areas – Franklin and
Johnson counties.
At first glance, it is easy to see how this animal is often
mistaken for a snake, for it has a similar body shape and is
without legs. When you look closer, however, you will notice
three important differences between the slender glass lizard
and its reptile cousins. First off, slender glass lizards have
eyelids and can actually close their eyes. Secondly, unlike
snakes, these lizards have external ear openings, which they
use to pick up sounds. Lastly, they have a lateral skin fold
that extends from the head to the vent. Another difference
is in the way they move. Most people assume that having
no legs, they would slither. However, they actually use their
sides to push themselves off debris or vegetation.
This animal's long cylindrical body, pointy snout and
narrow head make this legless lizard easily identifiable.
Their color ranges from tan, brown or bronze, with a dark
brown or black stripe running along the middle of the back
from the head to the tail. The sides of the neck have speckled
brown markings, and the belly is usually white or light
yellow. These lizards prefer dry or arid areas, with tall grasses
and loose soil. Here, they burrow and spend a majority of
their time underground.
The slender glass lizard is an appropriate name for this
reptile, given that when caught, it frantically tries to escape,
often breaking its tail into pieces, like glass. The shedding of
its tail is the main defense mechanism for the species. Its tail
will eventually grow back. Yet when it does, it will be darker
and shorter than its original tail. Not only is it rare to find a
slender glass lizard in Nebraska, but it is also rare to find one
with the original tail still intact.
This secretive and rare reptile is considered a "species in
need of conservation" within the state of Nebraska. If you
see one, just leave it alone and enjoy it from afar. Also, report
your findings to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
wildlife division so biologists can continue to study this
amazing creature.
Monica Macoubrie is an outdoor educator with the Nebraska
Game and Parks Commission.
SLENDER GLASS LIZARDS
By Monica Macoubrie
IN THE FIELD
PHOTO
BY
DAN
FOGELL
In modern times, slender glass lizards have been seen in
only two Nebraska counties: Franklin, at left, and Johnson.
