Ecological comparison of sympatric populations of sand lizards (Cophosaurus texanus and Callisaurus draconoides)

Authors

Donald D. Smith, University of California, Los Angeles
Philip A. Medica, University of California, Los Angeles
Sherburn R. Sanborn, California State University, Long Beach

Abstract

Sympatric populations of Cophosaurus texanus and Callisaurus draconoides were periodically sampled from March 1973 through April 1974 at Burro Creek, Mohave County, Arizona. Callisaurus were also sampled at Rock Valley, Nye County, Nevada. Sex ratios were skewed in favor of males in the adult Cophosaurus but were equal in both adult populations of Callisaurus. Both species became sexually mature as yearlings. Mean clutch sizes were 3.55 (±0.83) for Cophosaurus, and 4.25 (±1.08) and 5.07 (±1.33) for Callisaurus at Burro Creek and Rock Valley respectively. Evidence of multiple clutches was exhibited by both species. Egg weight/body weight ratios for both species and clutch weight/body weight ratios for Cophosaurus were notably smaller than previously reported. At Burro Creek both species were highly insectivorus, with orthopterans comprising the largest food group of each. Niche overlap for food was high at the ordinal level, but at the familial level it is apparent that Callisaurus probably fed in the more xeric areas of the riparian habitat. No differences were found in the temperature responses of these two lizards. However, minor temporal separations and substantial spatial partitioning were observed. Callisaurus preferred sandy open areas, while Cophosaurus preferred the presence of some rocks and boulders.

Recommended Citation

Smith, Donald D.; Medica, Philip A.; and Sanborn, Sherburn R. (1987) "Ecological comparison of sympatric populations of sand lizards (Cophosaurus texanus and Callisaurus draconoides)," Great Basin Naturalist: Vol. 47: No. 2, Article 1.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/gbn/vol47/iss2/1