THE SIX-LINED TARAGUIRA. 



39 



The general coloring of the Teguexin is as follows. The upper parts are deep black 

 with bold mottlings of yellow or green. On the upper part of each side there are two 

 series of white spots, and the under parts are mostly yellow, with black bands. The 

 coloring is, however, extremely variable. 



THE curious little A.MEIVA, which has just been mentioned as falling a victim to the 

 previous species, is closely allied to the Teguexin. It is rather a pretty Lizard,, with a 

 very long whip-like tail, and peculiarly elongated toes on the hinder feet. The long tail 

 is covered with a series of scales, arranged in rings, of which about one hundred and 

 twenty have been counted in a perfect specimen. The color of the Ameiva is dark olive, 

 speckled with black on the nape of the neck and front of the back. On the sides are 

 rows or bands of white spots edged with black, from which peculiarity it is sometimes 



TECUEXIN. Telua Teguexim. 



called the Spotted Lizard. There are many species of Ameiva, inhabiting either Central 

 America, or the West Indian Islands. 



The SIX-LINED TARAGUIRA also belongs to the Teguexins. This pretty little Lizard, 

 with its dark green body, and yellow streaks, inhabits North America. Mr. Holbrook 

 makes the following remarks respecting its habits. " This is a very lively, active 

 animal, choosing dry and sandy places for its residence, arid is frequently met with in the 

 neighborhood of plantations, or near fences and hedges. Most usually it is seen on the 

 ground in search of insects ; its motions are remarkably quick, and it runs with great 

 speed. It is very timid. It feeds on insects, and generally seeks its food towards the 

 close of the day, when they may be seen in corn-fields, far from their usual retreat ; 

 and not unfrequently I have met male and female in company." 



