CORDYLUS GRISEUS. 



almost keeled scales ; the two lying over the external ear tubercular, com- 

 pressed (see Plate XXX, fig. 8 a,) and prominent. The scales of the upper 

 surface of neck, back, and sides disposed in transverse rows, about twenty- 

 seven in number, each scale quadrangular in shape, and slightly keeled, the 

 keel posteriorly slightly prolonged beyond the edge of the scale ; scales of 

 the sides of the neck triangular, spinous, and pointed ; scales of the tail 

 arranged in circular rings and each scale strongly carinated, the carina on 

 the upper and lateral surfaces elongated posteriorly so as to form prominent 

 spiny points. The fore legs and the upper surface of the hinder ones covered 

 with triangular carinated scales, each of which terminates in a projecting 

 point ; the lower surface of hinder legs coated with quadrangular smooth 

 scales, and the hinder surface with small granular ones. Scales between rami 

 of lower jaw subquadrangular, smooth, and arranged in transverse rows, those 

 of under surface of neck subovate, and arranged in slightly arched rows. 

 Plates of under surface of body in distinct transverse rows, twelve in each, 

 the middle ones larger than the lateral ones. Pre-anal space covered with sub- 

 quadrangular scales, the two centre ones of the hindermost row largest ; im- 

 mediately behind anus a band of small somewhat triangular scales, with two 

 larger ones at each anterior angle, the inner one flat, the outer one tubercular, 

 pointed, and projecting outwards. Feet small; toes long, slender, and armed 

 with short, pointed, and curved nails. Femoral pores (Plate XXX. fig. 8 b.) 

 ei°ht, arranged in one line, and each situated in a prominent warty elevation. 

 Full grown specimens of this species usually measure from six to seven 

 inches. 



This species is very widely distributed over Southern Africa, and there is scarcely a stony 

 knoll, a precipice, or an exposed rock which does not afford a habitat for one, two, or more in- 

 dividuals. In common with others of the genus, it seeks concealment under stones and rocks, 

 or in the chinks between them, and when once lodged in such positions it is not easily captured. 

 The colours of no two individuals are quite the same, therefore naturalists, who do not rest their 

 specific characters upon other details, will of necessity be forced to recognize mere varieties 

 as distinct species. 



